Mbarara Police Disciplinary Court Recommends Dismissal of Four Officers Captured in Viral Video

The police officers dragged a suspect in the mud during an arrest in an incident that was captured on camera

The Rwizi Region Police Disciplinary Court on Friday recommended the dismissal of four police officers who were caught in a viral video exhibiting unprofessional conduct during the arrest of Victoria Kabatoreine.

The officers, ASP Andrew Betunga, Detective Constables Darious Aharizira, Hope Nsasirwe, and Loyce Kiboneka, were seen in the video using excessive force while arresting Kabatoreine.

They appeared before the disciplinary court, arriving in slippers and handcuffed, for a session that lasted nearly eight hours.

The court subsequently transferred their case to the Mbarara Magistrate’s Court, where they face charges of torture.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed the disciplinary court’s recommendation to dismiss the four from the force.

“When we arraigned all the four before the disciplinary court here at Rwizi region Mbarara, they pleaded guilty, and the court recommended their dismissal,” Rusoke said.

Following the disciplinary hearing, the officers were presented before the criminal court at the Mbarara Magistrate’s Court on torture charges.

They were remanded until December 20, 2024.

“The Office of the DPP has already sanctioned the file on charges of torture, and they have been remanded until December 20,” Rusoke added.

Speaking to reporters, Kabatoreine explained her resistance to the arrest, stating that no warrant was presented, and she was unaware of any charges against her.

“They wanted to take me to the Police without any warrant of arrest, but also, I am innocent. I didn’t know the charges placed against me,” Kabatoreine said.

Her daughter, Miriam Anena, who recorded the video, praised the Police for taking action against the officers and expressed hope for justice in a 15-year-old land dispute involving her mother’s cousin.

“I am happy that I got the courage to record the video clip. It has helped highlight this land dispute and the injustices surrounding it,” Anena stated.

Rusoke condemned the officers’ behavior as captured in the video but noted that they have the right to appeal the disciplinary court's decision within 14 days.

“Our laws allow for an appeal within 14 days, but as police, I want to condemn the manner in which Afande Betunga and his colleagues conducted themselves while arresting the old woman,” Rusoke said.

The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the need for professionalism and accountability within law enforcement.

The police force’s decision to act swiftly has been seen as a step toward rebuilding public trust.