Politics 13 March 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Parliament Slams Police for Charging Citizens Shs200,000 for Canine Services Amid Falling Crime Rates
Uganda's Public Accounts Committee has criticized police for allegedly demanding Shs200,000 from citizens for canine services during investigations, despite claims the service is free. This comes as Deputy IGP James Ochaya reported a 10.3% drop in crime cases from 218,725 in 2024 to 196,155 in 2025. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4295/pac-faults-police-over-charges-canine-services
Uganda Police Force presented positive crime statistics to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on March 10, 2026, chaired by Hon. Gorreth Namugga. Deputy Inspector General James Ochaya highlighted a significant decline in reported crimes, dropping from 218,725 cases in 2024 to 196,155 in 2025—a 10.3% reduction.
The criminal case rate fell to 427 per 100,000 people from 476, based on a population of about 45 million. Ochaya credited better sub-county policing, inter-agency collaboration, and community involvement. Early 2026 operations led to 7,159 arrests nationwide, with 3,724 arraigned in court, including 3,512 in Kampala Metropolitan Area.
Tensions rose when MPs questioned fees for police sniffer dogs. Namugga noted public complaints of Shs200,000 charges, contradicting police policy for free services. Ochaya promised an investigation to address the issue.
Lawmakers like Silas Aogon (Kumi Municipality) called it widespread, while Susan Amero (Amuria) shared a personal story of paying for a dog at Kakiri station with no results. Joseph Ssewungu (Kalungu West) raised transport concerns, citing local efforts to house a unit.
Police admitted deployment challenges but noted procurement of specialized equipment for rural areas.
Source: Parliament of Uganda