The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abbas Byakagaba, has awarded two private security guards in Kazo District with cash of Shs500,000 each for refusing to accept a bribe from suspects involved in cattle theft.

The guards, Paul Okongo and Samuel Lokodo of Eagle Eye Security Agency, were rewarded for their integrity after they declined a bribe and instead alerted police about the theft at a farm they were guarding. Acting on the tip-off, police swiftly arrested the suspects and recovered the stolen cattle. The suspects are now facing prosecution.

On instructions of the IGP, the cash award totalling Shs1,000,000 was delivered by the Chairman of the Uganda Private Security Association (UPSA), Mr. Grace Matsiko, at Kazo Police Headquarters.

The handover ceremony was witnessed by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Capt. (Rtd) Yahaya Kakooza, the LC5 Chairperson Rev. Sam Katugunda, the District Police Commander SSP Joseph Nsabimana, DISO Moses Rwabwere and police officers who worked alongside the private security guards during the operation.

“I informed the IGP about the incident where the two guards rejected a bribe and instead reported the matter to police, which acted swiftly to arrest the suspects,” Matsiko said.

“The IGP described the guards as patriots who deserve recognition. This reward underlines the importance of cooperation between the Uganda Police Force and private security organizations in combating crime that undermines the country’s socio-economic agenda,” he added.

Matsiko further quoted the IGP as describing private security as a “force multiplier” and commended the Kazo police leadership for their strong collaboration with private security personnel. He called for similar cooperation across the country.

RDC Capt. Kakooza thanked the IGP for the gesture, describing it as a strong motivation to private security organizations and other security personnel.
“For private guards to ignore a bribe is exceptional. This is a golden day for Kazo and aligns with His Excellency the President’s message on strengthening the foundation of security that has made Uganda stable,” he said.
He noted that prompt reporting by private security guards and swift police response have contributed to a reduction in crime in Kazo District over the past six months. He also proposed that police officers involved in the operation be considered for recognition due to their quick action.

LC5 Chairperson Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda also applauded the IGP for rewarding the guards, saying the action will inspire others to uphold integrity. He thanked all security agencies for their continued efforts in fighting cattle theft in the district.
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