Media stakeholders in the region say the incident reflects a troubling pattern of intimidation targeting journalists, particularly in cases where individuals are detained without formal charges.
The Masaka Central Police Commander (DPC), Maurice Oye, has reportedly ordered the detention of Frank Bwekumbule, a journalist with Impact FM, under unclear circumstances—raising fresh concerns about press freedom and due process.
According to information obtained by this publication, Bwekumbule was taken into custody without being formally charged. Efforts by the journalist to seek clarification on the reasons for his arrest have been unsuccessful, with the DPC declining to provide an explanation.
The situation escalated when members of the Greater Masaka Journalists Association went to the police station to follow up on their colleague’s detention and seek his release on police bond. The group was allegedly ordered to leave immediately or risk being detained as well.
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The detention comes just days after Bwekumbule was violently attacked by unidentified assailants in Masaka Town while returning home. He sustained serious injuries and is still recovering. Despite the incident being reported, police have yet to commence investigations into the assault.
Media stakeholders in the region say the incident reflects a troubling pattern of intimidation targeting journalists, particularly in cases where individuals are detained without formal charges.
By press time, police had not issued an official statement regarding the detention, and the circumstances surrounding the case remain unclear. Further details are expected as the situation develops.
According to information obtained by Kyaggwe TV, Masaka DPC Maurice Oye was transferred to the area in the latest police reshuffles by the Inspector General of Police, and has not yet spent a month in the region. He is said to have previously served in Buwenge in the Busoga sub-region.
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