KAMPALA, UGANDA — Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sam Omala passed away at the age of 64 on the morning of April 28, 2025, at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
His death was confirmed by his wife, Peace Kirabo Omala, and Capt. Mike Mukula, the chairman of Arrow Security Systems Ltd, where Omala served as Director of Operations and Deputy CEO. Capt. Mukula noted that Omala succumbed to prostate cancer after a prolonged illness.
Omala gained national prominence in 2011 as the Kampala Field Force Unit (FFU) commander during the “Walk to Work” protests led by opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Omala’s firm approach to crowd control and protest management made him a central figure in the government’s response to civil unrest.
He was known for deploying officers to monitor and, at times, restrict the movements of opposition figures, including stationing personnel outside Besigye’s residence in Kasangati to prevent mobilization efforts.
After retiring from the Uganda Police Force in 2020 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, Omala transitioned to the private sector.
In August 2023, he was appointed Director of Operations at Arrow Security Systems Ltd, a private security firm owned by Capt. Mike Mukula.
In the months leading up to his death, Omala’s health deteriorated significantly. He was hospitalized at Mulago Hospital, where he battled prostate cancer and kidney complications.
During this time, his son, Mutukuvu Devine Omala, conveyed his father’s heartfelt plea for forgiveness from anyone he may have wronged during his lifetime and career.
Omala emphasized that his illness was not caused by anyone and sought reconciliation with those he had interacted with during his service.
The Uganda Police Force and the broader community have expressed their condolences, remembering Omala as a dedicated and hardworking officer who played a significant role in maintaining public order during challenging times.
