Police Officer Arrested After Viral Video Shows Him Slapping Fuel Attendant

KAMPALA, Kyanja  — Police has confirmed the arrest of a senior police officer who was caught on camera assaulting a female fuel station attendant in the Kyanja suburb of Kampala — a video that has sparked public outrage and renewed debate about police accountability.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Clive Nsiima Barigye, attached to the Counter Terrorism Directorate under the Oil and Gas Protection Unit, was seen in CCTV footage slapping a female cashier at a Shell fuel station after she reportedly asked him to settle an unpaid bill of approximately Shs30,000 ($8).

The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows Nsiima — dressed in civilian clothes — berating the attendant before striking her twice across the face. In the recording, he boasts about his rank and impunity, saying:

“I am parking; have you ever driven such a car? She’s there disturbing me over Shs30,000. Do you think I can run away with Shs100,000? I can slap you even with these cameras here and tomorrow we go to court.”

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed the arrest on X (formerly Twitter), responding to widespread public anger.

“I hereby confirm that he has been arrested,” Rusoke said.

Earlier, AIGP Tom Magambo, the Director of Criminal Investigations, had condemned the incident, describing it as “isolated behaviour” that does not represent the police institution.

“Be assured that an internal investigation is ongoing to guide in further action,” Magambo posted.

Nsiima is expected to face charges of assault and threatening violence under Uganda’s Penal Code Act, which carries penalties of up to five years in prison. However, it remains unclear whether he will face a conventional court or be tried through internal police disciplinary mechanisms.

The video has triggered a wave of anger across Uganda, with citizens demanding justice and stronger action against officers who abuse their authority. Many social media users expressed skepticism about whether Nsiima will be held accountable, citing his apparent confidence in escaping punishment.

For now, the Uganda Police Force faces mounting pressure to demonstrate that no officer is above the law.