The Uganda Police Force is mourning the loss of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) John Cossy Odomel, who passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in a hospital in India.
Odomel’s death comes shortly after the passing of another former IGP, Okoth Ogola.
The news of his passing was shared by current IGP Abbas Byakagaba on his X handle, where he expressed the police force’s grief.
“The family of Mr. John Cossy Odomel deeply mourns the passing of Mr. Odomel (IGP Emeritus), a distinguished former Inspector General of Police and a beloved father. He peacefully passed away this morning, Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in India.” Byakagaba wrote.
He also highlighted Odomel’s enduring contributions to the Uganda Police Force, which will always be remembered.
Details regarding his burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
Born in April 1955 in Kameke Village, Pallisa District, Odomel demonstrated strong academic abilities. He attended Lango College for his secondary education and later pursued a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Makerere University.
Odomel served as IGP from 1992 to 1998, during which time he worked to professionalize the police force, emphasizing technocratic methods to increase efficiency.
After retiring from the police, Odomel entered politics and, in 2001, ran for the Pallisa County parliamentary seat with support from prominent figures in the Movement. However, he was not successful in the election.
In 2006, he lost a petition challenging the election of Pallisa MP Louis Opange, with the court ruling that Odomel failed to provide sufficient grounds for the challenge.
In recognition of his dedicated service, Odomel was awarded the Exemplary Service Medal Class One in 2010. He was married to Mary Magdalene Aino Odomel, who passed away in October 2024.
