Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abas Byakagaba has directed police officers to stop making unnecessary arrests and detaining people in cases that do not require it, reminding them that their role is to investigate crimes and enforce the law, not punish citizens.
Byakagaba said police officers should consider summoning people to record statements or appear in court instead of automatically arresting and keeping them in police cells.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Regional Police Commanders, Regional Criminal Investigations Officers and Regional Crime Intelligence Officers at Police Headquarters in Naguru.
The IGP warned commanders against using arrests and detention to intimidate citizens, settle personal interests or demonstrate authority. He said officers must exercise their powers within the law and only detain people when it is necessary and legally justified.
He also cautioned police commanders against interfering in civil or other non-criminal disputes, urging them to concentrate on matters that fall within the police mandate.
Byakagaba explained that police are responsible for investigating suspected offences and processing cases in accordance with the law, leaving courts and other relevant authorities to determine the appropriate action.
“Police is not in that category of punishing. The police is in the process of processing for the other side to look at the situation. It is not within our mandate,” he said.
He further noted that unnecessary and prolonged detention puts pressure on police resources, including the facilities and personnel required to manage suspects in custody.
The Police Chief criticised the attitude among some officers who regard keeping people in cells as a sign of authority, saying arrest and detention should never be treated as punishment.
Meanwhile, Byakagaba said the establishment of five police zones across the country would strengthen supervision, improve the distribution of resources and help officers respond more effectively to security challenges.
Under the new arrangement, each zone will be headed by a senior police officer responsible for supervising about five Regional Police Commanders. The officers will oversee police operations, address challenges affecting regional commands and coordinate the mobilisation of resources.
