Police in Nebbi District have opened investigations into a serious shooting incident that took place at Nebbi Central Police Station (CPS), which resulted in the death of one police officer and injuries to four civilians. The incident has raised concern among residents and authorities, prompting immediate action and a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the event.
According to preliminary reports, the incident began after a young woman, identified as Atuhaire Praise, traveled from Kampala to Nebbi to visit her boyfriend, Ocircan Robert. The two reportedly had a misunderstanding, which led Atuhaire to seek help from Nebbi CPS. Police officers received her complaint and attempted to bring Ocircan in for questioning after he allegedly declined to cooperate with police summons.
Tensions rose when officers moved to arrest Ocircan Robert. Community members reportedly reacted strongly to the arrest attempt and began throwing stones at the officers. In response to the growing unrest, Police Constable Okello Sam reportedly discharged his firearm in an attempt to control the situation. However, the situation turned tragic when the gunfire struck five people, including a fellow officer and four civilians.
Among the victims were Police Constable Olupot Joseph, Okecha Charles, Pimer Irene, Epifania Joy, and Oroch Charles. All the injured were rushed to Nebbi General Hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, PC Olupot Joseph was pronounced dead shortly after arrival, while the others continue to receive treatment.
Following the incident, police authorities opened a General Inquiry File (GEF 15/2026) to guide investigations. The firearm used in the shooting was recovered and taken as evidence, and the suspect, PC Okello Sam, was taken into custody at Nebbi CPS. Statements have already been recorded from witnesses as part of ongoing investigations.
Authorities have also begun plans to revisit and reconstruct the scene in order to gather more evidence. A postmortem report is expected from the hospital, and all exhibits will be submitted for forensic analysis to help establish exactly what happened and whether proper procedure was followed.
The incident has left the Nebbi community in shock, as residents await clear answers from the ongoing investigation. Police have assured the public that updates will be provided as inquiries continue into this tragic and complex case.
