The Uganda Police Force is mourning the passing of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Charles Kataratambi, the Director of Human Rights and Legal Services, who breathed his last on Thursday, October 2, 2025, after battling diabetes and related complications.
The announcement was made in a heartfelt statement from Police Headquarters at Naguru, describing his death as not only an untimely loss to the force but also to the entire country, which he served with distinction for over two decades.
“The Uganda Police Force fraternity deeply regrets to announce the untimely passing of Assistant Inspector General of Police Kataratambi Charles, Director of Human Rights and Legal Services, which occurred today, 02 October 2025,” the statement read.
“Details regarding the burial arrangements will be shared in due course. The UPF conveys heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the departed officer. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” it added.
AIGP Kataratambi’s journey in the police force began in 2001, where he quickly established himself as a dedicated and disciplined officer.
He served in critical units including the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the Flying Squad, and the Media Crimes Unit. His tireless work ethic earned him respect across the force.
In 2013, he rose to the national spotlight when he was appointed commander of the Special Investigations Division (SID).
It was in this position that he handled sensitive and high-profile investigations, among them the probe into the infamous Katosi road scandal.
His calm but firm approach earned him recognition as a no-nonsense investigator who placed duty above fear or favor.
In May 2024, his long service and contribution to law enforcement were recognized when he was promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police.
He was then entrusted with the leadership of the Human Rights and Legal Services Directorate, a role in which he worked to harmonize police operations with the protection of human rights.
Those who worked closely with him say he was passionate about fairness, accountability, and professionalism in policing. His colleagues described him as a man who “never compromised on integrity” and who consistently reminded junior officers that the law must be upheld even in the toughest circumstances.
Beyond his official duties, AIGP Kataratambi was seen as a mentor to many young officers who admired his humility, discipline, and firm sense of justice.
His rise through the ranks served as inspiration that hard work and loyalty to service could yield great achievements.
In Fort Portal, where news of his death was received with shock during an ongoing RDC retreat, several officers described him as “a true servant of the people.” Others noted that his leadership in human rights advocacy had softened the image of the force in the eyes of the public.
His loss leaves a gap not only in the police structure but also in the broader security community that had come to rely on his counsel and experience.
Many have called his passing “the departure of a dedicated servant of justice” whose legacy will continue through the policies and values he championed.
As the Uganda Police Force prepares to lay him to rest, the nation reflects on a life of service defined by courage, discipline, and an unshakable commitment to the rule of law.
