The police disciplinary standby court Wednesday opened the trial of police officers who are accused of extortion leading to the death of a boda-boda rider by setting himself on fire.

The court chaired by ASP David Manzi kicked off by listening to witnesses who accused  some police officers at Masaka Central Police Station of soliciting bribes to release their motorcycles and vehicles  in case they are impounded.

Prosecution led by Isaac Owona presented four witnesses who accused Sgt Julius Ewalu of several charges including soliciting bribes, abuse of office, professional misconduct and corruption. Ewalu who is jointly charged with Sgt Ibrahim Ssesanga, is attached to Masaka Central Police Station.

Hajj Noordin Byakatonda, one of the prosecution witnesses, pinned Ewalu for soliciting a bribe of Shs100,000 from him after impounding his car during curfew hours. He told court that after giving the money to Ewalu, he released his vehicle.

Another witness, Yasin Kalyango told court that the same Ewalu demanded Shs40,000 to release his son’s bicycle which had been impounded.

Masaka Regional (PPSU) officer, Mr David Turyasingura, told court that he received complaints from both Kalyango and Byakatonda accusing Ewalu of soliciting money from them but when he summoned him, he denied the allegations.