Kampala, Uganda. In Uganda, the government, through police and other security agencies, often announces substantial monetary rewards or bounties to encourage the public to provide crucial information during sensitive investigations, such as terrorist activities, assassination attempts, and armed attacks.
Despite the tempting incentives, a significant hesitation exists among individuals to come forward and support the police. This phenomenon has become a persistent challenge for law enforcement agencies for several years even in what appears to be a more advanced and professional time.
However, it raises critical questions about the factors contributing to this reluctance. Before we look at the factors, let’s turn the clock to a few past incidents in which rewards have been announced.
One most recent illustration of this reluctance is evident in the Uganda Police Force’s announcement of a Ugx20 million reward for information related to the gunmen who allegedly attempted to murder Pastor Aloysius Bujjingo and killed his bodyguard, Richard Muhumuza, in January 2024.
Similarly, in 2021, a Ugx20 million bounty was offered for the overall coordinator of domestic terror cells, Sheikh Abu Ubaida Badir Diin Bukenya, following an attack on Uganda’s Transport Minister, Gen Katumba Wamala, where his daughter and driver lost their lives.
Additionally, in 2017, the Uganda Chinese community, in collaboration with the police, offered a staggering Ugx300 million reward for information leading to the capture of those responsible for the brutal murder of two Chinese women in Kikoni.
Despite these hefty rewards, the reluctance of individuals to step forward is a complex issue. One prevalent concern is the perceived lack of secrecy within the police force, raising fears that coming forward may expose informants to potential harm.
Additionally, individuals express concerns about possible torture by security operatives if they provide information, deterring them from cooperating with law enforcement.
The absence of sufficient protection from the state further exacerbates these fears, as potential witnesses worry about the consequences of their cooperation on their safety.
In light of this ongoing dilemma, we examine the root causes of public hesitation. The fear of exposure, lack of secrecy, concerns about potential torture, and inadequate protection from the state emerge as common themes in their investigation.
These findings shed light on the need for reform within law enforcement agencies to build public trust and create an environment where individuals feel secure enough to contribute to sensitive investigations without fear of reprisals.
Perceived Lack of Secrecy
Ugandans within and abroad, whom we spoke to during our inquiries said they fear that law enforcement agencies lack the necessary confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive information.
Concerns arise about the possibility of leaks, leading to the exposure of the informant’s identity. However, this fear can deter potential informants as they worry about retaliation from criminal elements if their identity becomes known.
“It also hampers the establishment of trust between law enforcement and the public, hindering the effectiveness of collaborative efforts,” said Eliyazaali Mukwaya, a concerned resident of Mutungo in Nakawa division, Kampala City.
Torture by Security Operatives
There is a prevailing perception that individuals providing information to the police may become suspects and question how and where they got the information. Unprofessional intelligence officers often do this.
Another reason Ugandans, fear becoming targets of interrogation tactics, including torture, in an attempt to extract more details or confirm the accuracy of their statements.
According to one Luswata, a commercial motorcyclist in Mukono, this fear has a chilling effect on the willingness of individuals to share crucial information, even when substantial rewards are offered.
Joel Kityo, another resident of Masaka City, explains that it contributes to a climate of fear, eroding trust between the public and law enforcement and potentially leading to a breakdown in cooperation.
Lack of Sufficient Protection from the State
For this reason, individuals have questioned the ability of law enforcement agencies to provide adequate protection for informants, especially when dealing with powerful criminal networks or entities that may have the means to retaliate.
As a result, Ramar Katongole, a resident of Kawempe division, said the absence of a reliable protection mechanism dissuades potential witnesses from coming forward, as they fear potential repercussions to their safety and that of their families.
“For sure, this lack of protection undermines the effectiveness of the reward system and the trust in law enforcement,” he said.
Overall Impact
The cumulative effect of these fears results in a significant reluctance among the public to collaborate with law enforcement agencies. This impaired collaboration hinders the timely gathering of critical information necessary for solving complex cases and maintaining public safety.
The hesitancy to come forward prolongs the investigative process, allowing criminals to remain at large and potentially carry out more criminal activities.
Delayed investigations may lead to the loss of crucial evidence and witnesses, making it challenging to bring perpetrators to justice.
The persistent reluctance to cooperate with law enforcement erodes public trust in the criminal justice system. When citizens perceive a lack of protection, secrecy, and potential mistreatment, they are less likely to view law enforcement agencies as partners in maintaining safety and order.
Furthermore, the communities may become more vulnerable to criminal activities as the hesitancy to report information leaves law enforcement with limited resources and intelligence. This increased vulnerability poses risks to public safety and undermines the overall effectiveness of crime prevention efforts.
IGP Ochola
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Martin Okoth Ochola emphasises the importance of police investigators earning the trust of all communities by respecting individuals and their traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles, provided they align with the rule of law.
Ochola outlines key principles for investigators, stressing the restrained use of force, maintaining confidentiality, and employing appropriate techniques tailored to each situation.
He further highlights the need for perseverance in conducting fair and equitable investigations, stressing objectivity in gathering and reporting evidence.
Ethical conduct is paramount, with investigators and supervisors expected to adhere to applicable standards at all times.
According to Ochola, timeliness in conducting and reporting investigations is crucial, recognising the impact on individuals’ lives and organisational activities.
Additionally, the IGP stresses the importance of providing extra support and assistance to vulnerable individuals, such as victims, witnesses, or suspects, acknowledging their potential need for care.
Presidential Directive On Witness Protection
In April of the previous year, President Yoweri Museveni announced a crucial directive on witness protection while addressing prosecutors at the 6th Annual Joan Kagezi Memorial Lecture at Speke Resort Hotel in Munyonyo.
The president’s order came about because the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) asked for a new law to protect witnesses better during legal cases. The goal is to make sure witnesses are safer when they are part of legal proceedings.
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