Ugandan singer Kabaya, born Joseph Bwogi, has rejected claims by the Uganda Police that his recent arrest was linked to alleged substance abuse, insisting that the incident was politically motivated.
The former Firebase Crew singer and outspoken supporter of opposition leader Bobi Wine says he was attacked by security operatives during the arrest, leaving him with four missing teeth.
Kabaya’s allegations have created a dispute between his account of events and the explanation provided by police, with both sides presenting different versions of what happened.
The singer has since been released on police bond and returned home, where he reunited with his family and sought medical attention.
Police Say Kabaya Was Arrested During Operation
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala confirmed that Kabaya had been arrested, but provided a different account of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to Kawala, the singer was detained during a police operation targeting alleged substance use and was later released on police bond.
She said that if Kabaya believes police officers assaulted him, he should formally report the matter so that investigations can be conducted.
“Singer Kabaya was arrested during our operations over alleged substance use and was later granted police bond. If he claims that he was assaulted by police, he should present his concerns, and investigations will be initiated.”
The police spokesperson did not confirm Kabaya’s allegations of assault but indicated that a complaint process exists for such claims.
Kabaya Rejects Substance Abuse Allegation
Kabaya has strongly denied the police explanation, saying he was not involved in any substance-related incident.
The singer said the allegation does not reflect what happened and insisted there is no such charge against him.
According to Kabaya, the incident began when security operatives allegedly intercepted him outside his home.
He claims officers blocked his movement using a police patrol vehicle before identifying him as a supporter of Bobi Wine.
“I know many Ugandans have been wondering why I was arrested and beaten until I lost four teeth. Some people think it was because of substance abuse, but that is not true. There is no such charge against me. It was all political.”
Kabaya further alleged that the officers targeted him because of his political association.
“These security operatives came to my home, blocked my way with a police patrol, and when I got out, they said, ‘This is Kabaya, a friend to Bobi Wine,’ before immediately beating me.”
The allegations have not been independently verified, and police have said any assault claims should be formally investigated.
Singer Calls for Justice
Following his release, Kabaya said his priority is seeking accountability from the people he accuses of assaulting him.
He called for the officers he alleges were involved to face legal action.
“I want justice from the officers who beat and injured me. I want them to be charged.”
The singer also maintained that he has no substance abuse-related charges against him.
“I have no charge against me, and there is nothing involving substance abuse.”
Kabaya also expressed appreciation to singer King Saha, whom he credited for publicly calling for his release.
Two Conflicting Accounts
The incident has highlighted a major disagreement between Kabaya’s account and the police explanation.
Police say the arrest occurred during an operation involving alleged substance use, while Kabaya says the incident was linked to his political identity and support for Bobi Wine.
At this stage, no independent findings from an investigation into the alleged assault have been released.
The matter now depends on any formal complaints, evidence presented, and investigations that may follow.
Why This Story Matters
Cases involving allegations of police misconduct and political targeting often attract public attention because they raise questions about accountability, citizens’ rights, and the relationship between security agencies and communities.
For Kabaya, the issue is personal, involving claims of physical injury and a demand for justice.
For authorities, the focus remains on their stated account that the arrest was connected to an operation targeting alleged substance use.
The conflicting narratives make official investigations important in establishing what happened.
Beyond the public debate, Kabaya’s account describes a traumatic experience that he says resulted in serious physical injuries.
The singer has spoken publicly about losing teeth and returning home to recover, while also thanking supporters who advocated for his release.
As the disagreement continues, attention remains on whether further investigations will clarify the events surrounding his arrest.
Kabaya and police currently present two different versions of the incident, with the singer calling for accountability and authorities saying any assault claims should be formally investigated.