By Nathan Eyagu 

Arua City - Police in the West Nile Region have provided a detailed account of events that unfolded during National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Sentamu Kyagulanyi’s campaign activities in Arua District and Arua City, an engagement that drew thousands of supporters and heightened security attention.

According to a statement issued by SSP Josephine Angucia, the West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, Hon. Kyagulanyi began his campaign day at Okazara Primary School grounds in Vurra Sub-County. Despite the large turnout, he was unable to address the gathering as planned. His team then proceeded to Ovisoni Trading Centre, where he briefly waved to cheering roadside supporters.

The campaign trail continued through Giligili area in Ayivu West Division, before Kyagulanyi and his entourage moved toward Ediofe Mission. Tensions began to rise when, upon reaching Onduparaka Trading Centre, the NUP candidate attempted to access Arua City Centre through a route not agreed upon during prior planning meetings with security officials. Police blocked the movement, prompting him to make a U-turn.

In a surprising turn of events, Kyagulanyi reportedly boarded a boda boda, concealed his identity with a motorcycle helmet, and rode on a numberless motorcycle through Arua City Centre. He eventually arrived at the NUP offices in Oli Central Division, where he climbed onto the rooftop of an unfinished building to address his supporters.

Despite earlier guidance from authorities, supporters continued to trail him in a large procession along Rhino Camp Road toward Inzikuru Stadium in Barifa, the designated campaign venue.

Police say that during the procession, some individuals pelted stones at security personnel, damaging four police vehicles—UP 03271, UP M/V 03346, UP M/V 00173, and UP M/V 7697. All incidents were documented under separate station diary references at Arua Central Police Station.

CCTV cameras positioned around the city played a key role in identifying suspects involved in the acts of malicious damage. By Thursday morning, police had arrested 32 individuals who are now detained at Arua CPS pending further investigation. The Inspector of Motor Vehicles is set to assess the extent of damage to the affected police vehicles.

Despite the isolated incidents, no injuries were reported, and authorities confirmed that the campaign event concluded without major disruptions.

In her statement, SSP Angucia urged all political actors to adhere to agreed campaign guidelines, maintain public order, and discourage hooliganism among supporters.

“We continue to urge political actors and their supporters to adhere to campaign guidelines, avoid acts of hooliganism, and refrain from behavior that could lead to accidents, injuries, loss of life, or disruption of other lawful activities,” she stated.

Police have vowed to continue monitoring campaign activities to ensure safety and order as the election season intensifies.