Uganda Police Officer Arrested Over TikTok Video Criticizing Case Handling
KAMPALA, UGANDA — A Uganda Police Force officer, Corporal Mukolerwa Fatina, has been arrested following a viral TikTok video in which she criticized the handling of a domestic violence and theft case, sparking a debate over whistleblowing versus professional conduct.
According to police spokesperson @mkituuma, the Uganda Police Force has taken note of the circulating video in which Cpl. Mukolerwa raised concerns over the release on police bond of a suspect in a case involving alleged domestic violence and the theft of land documents. The case, registered under CRB 70/2024, was lodged by the suspect’s estranged husband, identified as Frank.
Preliminary information indicates that Cpl. Mukolerwa arrested the suspect, Sylvia Arinaitwe, at her home in Bulamu, Kasangati. During and after the arrest, a confrontation reportedly occurred between the officer and the suspect, which left the officer allegedly assaulted.
Following the arrest, the District Police Commander (DPC) of Kasangati was tasked with verifying information that two children of the suspect had been left unattended at the locked premises, one of whom is estimated to be seven years old. It was upon consideration of these circumstances and the need to safeguard the welfare of the children that the DPC authorized the release of the suspect on police bond, pending the completion of inquiries.
Officials state that Cpl. Mukolerwa was arrested for unprofessional conduct in posting the video, urging officers to use internal channels instead of social media to address grievances. The incident has divided public opinion, with some viewing the officer as a whistleblower exposing systemic issues, while others see her as a discipline breaker.
The story continues to evolve, with prominent opposition figure Bobi Wine commenting on the situation. In a post on X, he stated, “When we say that serving military, police and prisons officers are in worse enslavement and they too need redemption!”
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the ongoing inquiries into the original case or the specific charges Cpl. Mukolerwa may face.
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