Police in the West Nile region have arrested 32 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) following a series of violent incidents that unfolded during the campaign trail of presidential candidate Hon. Robert Sentamu Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, in Arua on Wednesday.
West Nile Regional Police spokesperson Josephine Angucia confirmed that the disturbances stemmed from Kyagulanyi’s decision to divert from the security team’s pre-agreed campaign route. 
According to Angucia, Kyagulanyi’s day began at Okazara Primary School grounds in Vurra Sub-County, where he had been expected to address supporters but was unable to do so. He later proceeded to Ovisoni Trading Centre and continued to several other locations including Giligili and Ediofe Mission, greeting supporters along the way.
However, trouble escalated at Onduparaka Trading Centre.
“Mr. Kyagulanyi attempted to enter the City Centre through a route that had not been approved earlier, and when he was stopped, he instead boarded a numberless motorcycle, covered his face with a helmet, and rode through the City Centre to the NUP offices in Oli Central Division,” Angucia said.
Upon reaching the NUP office, Kyagulanyi climbed onto the rooftop of an unfinished building to address the crowd. He later moved with a large procession along Rhino Camp Road toward Inzikuru Stadium in Barifa, despite the route being outside the agreed plan.
It was during this stretch, police said, that some supporters turned violent.
“Along Rhino Camp Road, some of his supporters began throwing stones at police patrol vehicles. As a result, four police vehicles were damaged,” Angucia revealed.
The damaged vehicles were recorded under separate station diary references at Arua Central Police Station, including UP 03271, UP M/V 03346, UP M/V 00173, and UP M/V 7697.
Angucia said investigators relied on CCTV footage to identify suspects.
“Using CCTV analysis, we have so far arrested 32 individuals linked to the acts of malicious damage. They are currently detained at Arua CPS as investigations continue,” she confirmed.
She added that the Inspector of Motor Vehicles will conduct assessments on the damaged vehicles, and the search for additional suspects is still underway. Scene of crime officers have completed all the required documentation, and fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incidents.
Angucia called on all political actors to exercise restraint during campaigns.
“We urge candidates and their supporters to strictly follow campaign guidelines. Acts of hooliganism not only put lives at risk but also disrupt other lawful activities. We want to ensure that campaigns are peaceful,” she emphasized.
Despite the disruptions, police reported that Kyagulanyi’s rally at Inzikuru Stadium proceeded to its conclusion without further incidents.
