Dokolo District has bid farewell to its outgoing District Police Commander (DPC), Superintendent of Police (SP) Patience Baganzi, with district leaders praising her professionalism, teamwork and commitment to policing.
Baganzi, who served as Dokolo DPC from December 2022 to September 2026, was farewelled at a ceremony held on Wednesday, September 30, at De Vela Hotel in Dokolo Town.
Speaking at the function, incoming DPC Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Clement Okanya warned police officers against extorting money from members of the public, saying those found guilty would be arrested and detained.
Okanya urged officers to uphold professionalism and accountability while fulfilling their mandate of protecting life and property, preventing crime, and maintaining law and order. He also pledged to work closely with residents and local leaders to strengthen peace and security in the district.
Okanya, however, raised concern over public dances held in the middle of roads, warning that such activities could expose participants and other road users to accidents.
ASP Okanya was transferred to Dokolo in mid-September 2026 by Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba, swapping stations with SP Baganzi. He previously served as the DPC of Soroti Central Police Station.
Baganzi thanked residents, local leaders, and other stakeholders for their support during her tenure, saying teamwork had been central to her achievements. She recalled some of the challenges she faced while in charge, including the loss of a police firearm on the eve of a promotion ceremony, which triggered an overnight search for the weapon.
Baganzi also acknowledged the pressure that comes with policing and asked for forgiveness from anyone she may have offended during her time in office. She urged police officers to support her successor and maintain the teamwork that, she said, had helped the district address security challenges.
Dokolo District LCV Chairperson Peter Ogwang praised Baganzi for being a team player and for treating politicians and civil servants equally.
Ogwang, who has served as district chairperson for about four months, said Baganzi’s positive relationship with residents had earned her the appreciation of the community.
Dokolo Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Barbra Akech also commended Baganzi for what she described as her contribution to transforming policing in the district.
Akech said Baganzi’s dedication, including her willingness to respond to calls at night, had left a lasting impression on residents and leaders. She welcomed ASP Okanya, describing him as energetic and experienced, and urged him to maintain the teamwork and community cooperation established by his predecessor.
The RDC also backed Okanya’s warning against police officers demanding money from complainants or suspects, saying officers involved in such practices should face arrest and detention.
The farewell marked the end of Baganzi’s nearly four-year tenure in Dokolo as the district welcomed a new commander to take charge of its policing affairs.