Elegu, Amuru District – In a stunning act of defiance, a 49-year-old man set his own car on fire, leaving residents of Elegu town near the Uganda-South Sudan border in shock.
Suudi Balidawa, a driver and mechanic, carried out the dramatic protest in response to what he claims is targeted discrimination by a police officer due to his Muslim faith.
The incident took place around 5 PM in Lorikwo East village, just a short distance from the Elegu police station. Witnesses report that Balidawa drove his Toyota Wish, registration number UBE 852E, into an open field, doused the interior with petrol, and set it ablaze.
In an exclusive interview, Balidawa recounted the series of events that led to his drastic decision. He said his troubles began on May 7 when he accidentally struck an elderly woman from Kanyanya in Kampala while en route to Gulu city.
Despite promptly transporting the injured woman to Mulago National Referral Hospital and later making arrangements with her family for medical expenses, Balidawa’s actions drew the ire of local police.
According to Balidawa, on May 9, he reported the incident to the Elegu police station as advised by an officer from Kanyanya. Although initially bonded and charged with a traffic offense under case No: TAR27A/2024, his experience at Kanyanya police station took a darker turn.
Balidawa alleges that he was rudely treated, detained despite his prior police bond, and subjected to discriminatory remarks by the officer in charge.
“The officer in charge made demeaning comments about my faith, saying all Muslims are bad people,” Balidawa said.
“I had done everything right, even taking the victim to the hospital and arranging compensation with her family. This treatment was unwarranted.”
Balidawa’s frustration peaked when he was ordered by the Elegu police not to drive his vehicle outside the town council, despite having complied with all legal requirements for vehicle inspection. Feeling cornered and unjustly targeted, he decided to burn his car in protest.
David Ongom Mudong, the Aswa West River Region police spokesperson, confirmed that an investigation has been launched to understand Balidawa’s motives.
“We are looking into why he felt compelled to destroy his own property. This incident may have deeper roots, and we need to ascertain all facts,” Mudong stated.
Police fire brigade personnel arrived at the scene but were unable to save the car, which was already heavily engulfed in flames. Balidawa was briefly detained for questioning but was released later in the evening. Police have indicated that he could face arson charges pending the outcome of the investigation.
Balidawa maintains that his actions were a desperate plea for justice. He had already agreed to a compensation plan with the injured woman’s family, having paid the first installment of 1 million shillings out of the agreed 3 million.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion about police conduct and religious discrimination in Uganda, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals seeking fair treatment within the justice system. Balidawa’s protest serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which some will go to fight perceived injustices.
As the investigation continues, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that addresses the underlying issues of discrimination and police accountability.
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