Lira Mayor on spot over assault

By Francis Otucu

The police are investigating circumstances under which the Lira Municipality Mayor, Mike Ogwang Olwa assaulted a radio journalist.

The complainant, Bisamark Olang attached to Unity FM is said to have been assaulted while covering a story on ‘cancellation of tender on boda boda revenue collection’.

Police spokesperson Fred Enanga confirmed investigations into the matter have been launched, but hastened to caution journalists against over-zealousness while carrying out job-related assignments.

“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations is fast tracking the matter to quickly bring the perpetrators to justice,” Enanga said adding: “We however noted that the radio journalist was working alone and we would like to caution all journalists about the dangers, risks and consequences of mobile journalism.”

He added: “… always carry out risk assessments before interviewing people or capturing a video.”

Some time back, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Martins Okoth Ochola reiterated his commitment to protect journalists on duty.