Inspector of Police (IP) Thomas Otim, who serves as the head of the West Nile Region Professional Standards Unit, has been arrested following accusations of aggravated defilement made by a colleague concerning his young daughter. Otim was taken into custody on Tuesday, and the Directorate of Public Prosecution’s guidance is being awaited.

According to information provided by Arua CPS police, the 49-year-old suspect is alleged to have defiled the daughter of a police surgeon stationed at Arua Central Police Barracks. The alleged incident occurred on October 9, 2023, within the police barracks.

It is reported that Otim, who resides near the victim’s family, lured the girl into his house while she was at home with her mother, Rachel Nsiima. The mother explained that they heard the girl scream, which prompted her elder brother to intervene.

Following this, Nsiima conducted an examination of her daughter, which revealed injuries in her private area. She promptly reported the incident to the police, leading to the initiation of a General Inquiry File (GEF: No. 86/2023). Subsequent medical examinations confirmed penetration and injuries to the girl’s private parts.

Otim was initially granted bail due to his role as the head of the West Nile PSU. However, he was re-arrested on Tuesday following a directive from the Police headquarters. Given the suspect’s position, the victim has been placed on Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). Josephine Angucia, the Police Spokesperson for West Nile, has confirmed both the incident and Otim’s arrest.

The office of the Professional Standards Unit will be temporarily overseen by Otim’s Deputy while investigations continue under Arua Central Business District CRB 900/2023.