Kampala, Uganda — The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has dismissed the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) commander, in a major shake-up of senior police leadership amid rising crime concerns in the capital and its surrounding areas.
Commissioner of Police Richard Ecega, who was serving as the KMP commander, was removed from his post with immediate effect on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, following mounting complaints about violent crime across Kampala. The move was confirmed by police sources familiar with the changes.
In his place, Assistant Commissioner of Police Ezekiel Emitu has been appointed as the new commander of the Kampala Metropolitan Police. ACP Emitu had been serving as the commandant of the Police Training School in Kabalye, Masindi District, before taking up the metropolitan leadership role.
ACP Emitu is known for his experience in police training and community policing and previously held senior roles including a stint within the metropolitan police structure itself, giving him familiarity with urban security challenges.
The reshuffle also saw changes to other senior positions. Senior Superintendent of Police Ben Kasozi, the head of Crime Intelligence in the metropolitan area, was replaced by SSP Julius Isabirye, and key divisional commanders were moved as part of the broader adjustments.
The leadership change follows public concern over an apparent spike in violent crimes — including robberies, murders and opportunistic attacks — that has unsettled residents and business communities alike. While some high-profile arrests and weapons recoveries have been reported, critics argue that insecurity remains a pressing issue in and around the capital.
The police force has not officially commented on the reasons for the removals, but the strategic appointments are widely seen as part of efforts to bolster law enforcement effectiveness and restore confidence among city residents.
