Darius Opanya : “Viral Video Arrest: Brutal Security Guard Caught”

Old Kampala Police have apprehended two individuals, Darius Opanya and Samuel Azabo, in connection with a disturbing case of aggravated torture that has been circulating on various social media platforms. The incident allegedly took place on February 3, 2024, when the suspects engaged in a violent altercation with an 18-year-old named Isaac Kitooke.

The harrowing video, which surfaced online last week, prompted law enforcement to launch a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Following the identification of the perpetrators, the authorities swiftly located and arrested them. The victim, Kitooke, has been provided with a Police Form 3 for a thorough medical examination to assess the extent of his injuries.

In a statement addressing the incident, Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, clarified that the individual seen inflicting harm on the victim in the video is not a member of the police force. Instead, he is a local security guard named Darius Opanya, referred to as ‘Commander Ivan’ by the victim in the footage. The second suspect, Samuel, is believed to have recorded the distressing video. Both individuals have confessed to their involvement in the act of aggravated torture and have been formally charged.

Prominent opposition figure, Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, expressed outrage at the brutal treatment suffered by Kitooke. He highlighted the prevalence of such incidents in Uganda and emphasized the need to address and combat the culture of impunity that allows such atrocities to occur.

Owoyesigyire also issued a warning to local security guards and bouncers, urging them to avoid wearing attire that resembles police uniforms. This precautionary measure aims to prevent confusion and potential legal consequences, as individuals mistakenly posing as law enforcement officers may face prosecution upon arrest.

The alarming statistics provided by the country’s human rights commission (UHRC) in 2021 indicate that torture accounted for 37% of reported cases of human rights abuses. This data underscores the pressing need for comprehensive measures to address and eliminate the pervasive issue of torture in Uganda.