A police officer from Nsangi Police Station tragically lost his life in the early hours of Saturday, May 3, 2025, following a road accident near Prompet Fuel Station in Namagoma, along the Kampala–Masaka Highway.
The deceased has been identified as Police Constable (PC) Ben Otema, aged 36, badge number 52679. He was a dedicated and disciplined Acholi officer residing in Nsangi Central, Kyengera Town Council, Wakiso District.
Pursuit Turns Fatal
According to police reports, the incident occurred around 4:30 AM while PC Otema was responding to intelligence regarding a suspicious vehicle suspected of smuggling. Although stationed at Luqman Fuel Station with colleagues and a patrol vehicle (Toyota Land Cruiser UP 1328), PC Otema opted to use a red Haojue motorcycle (registration UMA 037CD) to pursue the suspect vehicle more swiftly toward Kampala.
As he neared Prompet Fuel Station, a green Mercedes Benz (registration UAH 901R), driven by Mr. Kagenda Sirage, attempted to turn into the station. At that moment, the bodaboda allegedly struck a road hump, causing the rider to lose control and crash into the Mercedes on the driver’s side.
The collision was severe. Both PC Otema and the rider were thrown off the motorcycle. The rider fled the scene immediately, while PC Otema was left critically injured. He was rushed to Galaxy Clinic in Nsangi by fellow officers but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have yet to identify the bodaboda rider, who remains at large. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information that could aid in his apprehension.
Senior officers, including Nsangi Division Police Commander SP Cheben Rogers, visited the scene alongside traffic police, forensic investigators, and field force units.
PC Otema’s body was transported to Mulago City Mortuary for a postmortem. The motorcycle and the Benz were impounded and taken to the Maya Bus Checkpoint for inspection by the Inspector of Vehicles. A Police Form 94 was issued to the driver of the Mercedes Benz as part of the investigation.
Community in Mourning
The death of PC Otema has left the Nsangi Police community in shock. Colleagues have described him as a hardworking, professional, and courageous officer who served with integrity.
Police continue to investigate the incident and urge any witnesses or individuals with information about the fugitive rider to come forward.
