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Eight suspects escape from police custody in Alebtong
North Kyoga Region Police spokesperson Patrick Okema said the escape happened at approximately 9:26 pm during a heavy downpour, which is believed to have created conditions that allowed the suspects to break free from the police cells undetected.
A case of escape from lawful custody has since been registered following a report filed by fellow officer Corporal Nelson Olwa.
By: Simon Masaba, Journalist @New Vision
ALEBTONG - Police have launched investigations after eight suspects escaped from lawful custody at Alebtong Central Police Station in an incident that occurred on the evening of July 27, 2026.
North Kyoga Region Police spokesperson Patrick Okema said the escape happened at approximately 9:26 pm during a heavy downpour, which is believed to have created conditions that allowed the suspects to break free from the police cells undetected.
A case of escape from lawful custody has since been registered following a report filed by fellow officer Corporal Nelson Olwa.
According to preliminary findings, the eight escapees have been identified as Elvis Ocero, who was facing an assault charge; Bernard Ogwal, charged with grievous harm; and Patrick Ogwal, charged with defilement.
Also among the escapees are Jimmy Ogwal, who was charged with theft; Ambrose Opio, charged with aggravated defilement; Oscar Gol, charged with grievous harm; and Denish Owiny, who was facing an arson charge.
Police said the identity of the eighth suspect is still being verified.
Okema said preliminary intelligence suggests that the fugitives may have fled to their respective home areas, and that a coordinated operation has been launched to trace, re-arrest and return them to custody to face the charges against them.
Also among the escapees are Jimmy Ogwal, who was charged with theft; Ambrose Opio, charged with aggravated defilement; Oscar Gol, charged with grievous harm; and Denish Owiny, who was facing an arson charge.
Police said the identity of the eighth suspect is still being verified.
Okema said preliminary intelligence suggests that the fugitives may have fled to their respective home areas, and that a coordinated operation has been launched to trace, re-arrest and return them to custody to face the charges against them.
Following the incident, all officers who were on duty guarding the cells at the time of the escape were arrested and charged with neglect of duty.
They remain in custody pending further investigations and court proceedings.
Police have since appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any information that could lead to the re-arrest of the escaped suspects.
They warned that anyone found harbouring or aiding the fugitives will face legal consequences.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the escape are ongoing.
They remain in custody pending further investigations and court proceedings.
Police have since appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any information that could lead to the re-arrest of the escaped suspects.
They warned that anyone found harbouring or aiding the fugitives will face legal consequences.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the escape are ongoing.