By
Emma Bwayo
Police in the Elgon region have been urged to investigate reports of illegal roadblocks along major highways, particularly those allegedly targeting motorists, and to step up efforts against extortion.
The call was made by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Bamunoba Ubaldo, the Chief Political Commissar of the Uganda Police Force, during a morning radio engagement on Elgon FM 101.4 in Mbale on Wednesday.
AIGP Bamunoba had earlier represented the Uganda Police at the burial of Police Constable Sulaiman Chemongesi in Kapchorwa on Tuesday. Chemongesi was reportedly killed by a mob in Ibanda over the weekend—an act the police have strongly condemned.
While responding to callers on the radio show, AIGP Bamunoba addressed growing complaints of harassment and extortion by officers along the Mbale–Lwakhakha road, particularly in the Bubutu section, where boda boda riders, taxi operators, and truck drivers have allegedly faced frequent exploitation.
He reiterated that the purpose of roadblocks is to enhance public safety, not to intimidate or extort citizens. “Officers must uphold the dignity of the police force and respect the public’s right to movement. Roadblocks should only be set up where necessary and for genuine security concerns,” said Bamunoba.
He encouraged motorists to report cases of misconduct to relevant authorities, including the District Police Commander (DPC) or Regional Police Commander (RPC), to ensure accountability within the force.
AIGP Bamunoba also issued a stern warning to the public against mob justice, urging communities to trust the established legal system to handle suspects. “We cannot allow anarchy. Every life matters, and justice must be pursued through the law,” he added.
Peter Walyaula, a motorist from Namitsa Sub-county in Namisindwa, welcomed the directive, saying it was long overdue. “We need peaceful coexistence between security forces and the community. This is the only way we can build trust and stability,” he said.