Cop in Viral Video Faces Dismissal Over Assault on Supermarket Attendant

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Clive Nsiima, attached to the Counter Terrorism Directorate, faces immediate dismissal and criminal prosecution after being captured on CCTV cameras assaulting a supermarket attendant at a Shell fuel station in Kyanja, Kampala.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, sparked widespread public outrage after video footage circulated on social media showing the officer, dressed in civilian clothes, slapping a female supermarket attendant twice at the counter. In the video, Nsiima is heard arrogantly claiming that he could assault her “even in front of cameras” after a disagreement over payment for goods worth UGX 30,000. The victim is heard crying out as he walks away casually.

The Police Professional Standards Unit (PSU) swiftly intervened, arresting the officer from the Oil and Gas Protection Unit and detaining him at Kira Division Police Station. Police spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma confirmed the arrest and said Nsiima will face charges of assault and threatening violence, offenses that carry severe disciplinary consequences under the Police Act.

“He has been arrested, and all I can confirm is that he will be arraigned in court today. For such offenses, the Police Act is clear — dismissal is immediate,” Kituuma said. He condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as a violation of professional ethics and a betrayal of public trust.

“There were alternative ways to resolve the matter, but the officer resorted to violence, which is unacceptable for someone in his position. As officers entrusted with protecting the public, discipline is paramount,” Kituuma added. The Uganda Police Force has repeatedly faced public criticism over incidents of misconduct involving security personnel, both in uniform and plain clothes.

Past incidents include the 2022 shooting of Constable Robert Mukebezi by a UPDF soldier who objected to the towing of a military vehicle involved in an accident, and the 2019 assault of traffic officer Esther Namaganda by Major General Matayo Kyaligonza and his aides in Seeta, Mukono District. The UPF leadership has since reiterated its commitment to enforcing discipline and ensuring accountability within the Force.