Investigations are underway in Tororo District to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged suicide of a police constable attached to Iyolwa Police Post on Sunday afternoon.
Bukedi South police spokesperson, Moses Johnson Mugwe, reported that 27-year-old Emmanuel Ekisa allegedly took his own life at his residence around 1pm.
On the day of the incident, Ekisa was reportedly at the counter with the officer in charge of the police post, John Naipe. Ekisa then retreated to his house, armed with a loaded rifle.
Soon after, gunshots rang out, drawing the attention of Naipe.
A team of policemen, led by Naipe, rushed to the scene and discovered that Ekisa had allegedly shot himself. He was found in a pool of blood, with the rifle still aimed at his head, Mugwe informed journalists on Monday.
Upon conducting a thorough body check, police found a note dated April 18, 2024, in Ekisa’s pocket. According to the police, the note indicated that Ekisa intended to inform his parents of his decision to end his life due to personal challenges.
By Monday, Ekisa’s body had been removed from the scene and taken to Tororo District Referral Hospital for a postmortem examination.
However, the police condemned the officer’s action of misusing a weapon intended for citizen and property protection to end his life.
Mugwe stressed that such behavior is unprofessional and a loss to the nation, as the rifle is meant for protection. He suggested that Ekisa could have discussed his problems with his supervisors or a close friend, which might have led to a solution.
Mugwe urged all armed officers facing personal issues to share their concerns with their supervisors to receive psychosocial support, rather than resorting to suicide.