In recent developments, Superintendent of Police Higwira Fredrick faces turmoil after a high-profile extradition mission he carried out in 2015.
SP Higwira, formerly the esteemed commandant of the Tactical Response and Neutralization Department, Counter Terrorism Directorate of the Uganda Police Force, finds himself in a precarious situation as the government he once served dis-acknowledges him.
SP Higwira, renowned for leading the extradition team responsible for apprehending ADF rebel leader Jamil Mukulu in 2015, now faces a disheartening betrayal from the very institution he dedicated 15 years of his life to.
Circumstances have taken a dramatic turn, where the Uganda Police Force issued an arrest warrant for SP Higwira after he left the country, driven by his perception of inadequate protection from the government against the ADF’s (Allied Democratic Forces) threats targeting both him and his family.
The ADF’s desire to exact revenge on Higwira for refusing to facilitate Jamil Mukulu’s escape from prison led to his decision to seek refuge abroad, despite his repeated pleas to receive adequate security from his superiors.
Higwira was left vulnerable, prompting him to take the difficult decision of leaving the country to protect his life and that of his family.
According to information provided by a senior police officer, who wished to remain anonymous, the decision to issue the arrest warrant issued in a police message dated February 10, 2023, was kept confidential within police circles as a precautionary measure should the President inquire about SP Higwira’s whereabouts.
Higwira gained prominence in 2015 when he led a highly trained police team tasked with extraditing the ADF rebel leader, Jamil Mukulu, from Tanzania to Uganda.
His unwavering commitment to duty and refusal to accept a bribe from the rebel leader earned SP Higwira accolades from the President himself, who urged all police officers to exemplify the same level of courage and love for their country in his various police addresses.
It is crucial to note that SP Higwira’s decision to leave the police force was instigated by the withdrawal of his security detail by high-ranking officers, forcing him to resort to self-preservation measures.
In response, the police chose to levy charges of “AWOL” (Absent Without Leave) against him, a move believed to deflect potential repercussions that could arise from this contentious situation, despite the fact that he had tendered in his resignation before he fled the country.
It is worth noting that Uganda has been grappling with corruption issues within its police force, with Anti-corruption reports consistently ranking it at the top for the past 20 years. Nevertheless, Higwira was commended by the President for his integrity and dedication during his service.
As the government of Uganda continues to hold Jamil Mukulu accountable for terrorism charges, the ADF remains a threat, as evidenced by their recent attack on a school in western Uganda, which tragically claimed the lives of 44 school children, with others being abducted.
The situation surrounding Superintendent Higwira Fredrick serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between upholding justice and ensuring the safety of those who risk their lives in service to their nation.
It sheds light on the need for improved security measures and support for those who put their lives at risk while serving the nation. As developments unfold, the government and relevant authorities should address the complexities surrounding all those involved in keeping law and order in Uganda.