Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Sam Omala has died at the age of 65 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
He passed away earlier today at Mulago National Referral Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment.
In recent years, Omala had faced multiple serious health complications, including prostate cancer and kidney failure. He was admitted to the private wing of Mulago Hospital last year to undergo dialysis as his condition worsened.
A prominent figure in Uganda’s police force, Sam Omala rose to national prominence as the Kampala North Police Operations Commander, especially during the turbulent 2011 walk-to-work protests led by opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye.
His tenure was often controversial, with critics accusing him of employing heavy-handed tactics against demonstrators.
After retiring from active duty, Sam Omala joined the private security sector, most recently serving as Deputy CEO at Arrow Security Services, a company owned by Capt. Mike Mukula. He was responsible for overseeing operations.
As his health declined, the Uganda Police Force committed to supporting his medical care, following a family appeal that prompted Capt. Mukula to seek help from President Museveni.
Funeral and burial arrangements are yet to be announced.
Meanwhile, tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from government officials, colleagues, and members of the public.
