Shock and anger have gripped residents of Kagadi District following the fatal shooting of a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer by a police officer over a mere Shs2000.
The incident, which occurred during a local football match, has raised serious concerns about the use of force by security personnel.
The tragic shooting happened at St Peter’s Catholic Primary School playground in Kyaterekera Town Council over the weekend. The football match was between Super Lions FC and Lyanda FC, a game that had attracted many local spectators.
The deceased UPDF officer has been identified as Akugizibwe Mbaale, aged 35. At the time of his death, Akugizibwe was on official leave from duty and was dressed in plain clothes, making him indistinguishable from ordinary civilians at the venue.
According to eyewitness accounts, Akugizibwe had earlier entered the playground after paying the Shs2000 entrance fee required to watch the match. He later stepped out of the venue to attend to a brief meeting with his mother.
When Akugizibwe attempted to re-enter the playground, the people manning the entrance stopped him and demanded that he pay the entrance fee again. They insisted that everyone entering the venue must pay, regardless of whether they had already done so.
Akugizibwe reportedly explained that he had already paid the Shs2000 and only stepped out briefly.
However, his explanation was rejected, leading to a heated disagreement at the entrance.
In an attempt to resolve the issue peacefully, Akugizibwe offered to add an extra Shs1000 as a compromise.
Despite this gesture, the entrance officials maintained that he must pay the full Shs2000 again or leave the playground.
The situation escalated further when a police officer attached to Kyaterekera Police Station intervened. The officer, later identified as Semei Kato, reportedly ordered Akugizibwe to leave the playground if he was not willing to pay the demanded amount.
Eyewitnesses say the exchange became tense and emotional. In a shocking turn of events, the police officer slapped Akugizibwe, provoking a physical confrontation between the two men.
What started as a minor disagreement over money quickly turned violent. During the scuffle, officer Semei Kato allegedly drew his firearm and shot Akugizibwe at close range.
Akugizibwe Mbaale died instantly at the scene, leaving spectators in shock and disbelief. Many people reportedly fled the playground in fear as the reality of the shooting set in.
The fatal shooting has left the community struggling to understand how a dispute over such a small amount of money could end in the loss of life. Residents described the incident as senseless and deeply disturbing.
Following the incident, the police officer involved surrendered himself to authorities. He handed over the firearm used in the shooting, signaling the start of formal investigations.
Police confirmed that a murder case has been registered at Kagadi Central Police Station. The case is recorded under reference number KGD CRB 152/2026 as investigations continue.
Security officials have not yet released a detailed statement on whether the officer acted in self-defense or used excessive force. However, the case has already drawn public attention and criticism.
The death of Akugizibwe has also renewed debate about discipline and accountability among armed security officers, especially when dealing with civilians in public spaces.
Many Ugandans have taken to social media to express outrage, questioning why a firearm was used in a situation that could have been resolved through dialogue.
The incident comes at a time when the country has witnessed several violent deaths involving security personnel, raising fears about the misuse of guns.
In a related development, reports have emerged of other violent incidents across the country, including the killing of a hotel manager and a security guard in Kampala, as well as the mysterious death of a TikToker in Kyanja.
As the investigation into Akugizibwe Mbaale’s death continues, the public is demanding justice, accountability, and stronger measures to prevent such tragic and avoidable incidents in the future.
