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This revelation is supported by data provided by a group of medical professionals from the Uganda Police Force, led by Dr. Enock Kabanda, the police surgeon for Wamala zone.
Kabanda, who is in charge of a team that conducts counselling sessions and raises awareness of mental health concerns among officers around the nation, made this revelation on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, while addressing officers at Tororo Central Police Station in the Tororo region.
He attributed the high rate of suicidal tendencies to retired officers lacking necessities such as suitable housing and income-generating projects, thus leading to suicidal thoughts.
Kabanda advised that in spite of the alleged low pay that the officers are always lamenting about, they should make some small investments and build at least a "simple house" while still serving in the force.
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"When you are advised to retire, you have nowhere to go because most of you don't invest any money and never go back to the village to build a house. Despite the low pay, make some small investments and build a simple house for your retirement," he advised.
He added that most police experience a "total disconnect" from their communities at home, which causes them to feel "lonely and isolated" and increases their risk of stress and suicide.
This revelation comes against the backdrop of a recent spate of murders committed by security officers, including those under the Uganda Police Force. In some cases, poor and delayed pay and poor mental health have been cited as having led to their actions.
Last month, Uttam Bhandari, an Indian national and the director of TFS Financial Services at Rajja Chambers in Kampala, was shot and killed by Police Officer No. 67029, PC Wabwire Ivan, at Parliamentary Chambers yesterday.
The police officer was reportedly mentally handicapped, which is believed to have led to his actions.