Uganda police deny abducting NUP members

Uganda’s police have rejected claims by the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) that its members are being abducted, insisting recent detentions are lawful arrests.

In recent weeks, several NUP supporters have been taken into custody, prompting the party to accuse security forces of kidnappings.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke told reporters on Monday that the claims were “false and politically motivated.”

“Since police began in 1906, we have been carrying out arrests, which is part of our mandate. If we listened to politicians, it would mean every person who goes through police custody is being kidnapped,” he said.

Mr Rusoke said some NUP members had been arrested on charges of unlawful military drilling or parades — offences under the Penal Code.

Ten suspects have so far been detained, nine of whom have appeared in court. Among them is NUP deputy spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, while another suspect, believed to be Doreen Kaija, is due in court.

“These people were arrested and arraigned in court, not kidnapped. Every Ugandan is subject to this law,” Mr Rusoke added.

He also criticised politicians for “using bloggers” to challenge the law, saying such matters should be debated in parliament.

On concerns that police should summon suspects rather than arrest them, Mr Rusoke said the choice of method rests with security agencies.

“Summoning is our choice. We can call you, arrest you, or pick you from anywhere in the country,” he said.