Police in Uganda have launched an investigation into the operations of officers in the traffic department.
It follows the death of a 29-year-old motorcycle taxi rider who reportedly was unable to pay a bribe of $40.
Hussein Walugembe had locked himself up at a police station demanding the release of his seized motorbike.
Local media reported that the motorbike was confiscated in the south-western district of Masaka, about 134km (83 miles) from the capital, Kampala, on Monday.
That seizure happened because there was a restrictions on motorcycle taxis – or boda bodas.
The government banned the bikes from carrying passengers for commercial purposes.
Police said Mr Walugembe had lent his bike to a friend, who was caught ferrying a passenger on Monday.
Mr Walugembe on Thursday, locked himself in a room at the station after getting frustrated with the police refusal to release the bike.
He then set himself ablaze using petrol concealed in a water bottle and match sticks.
Walugembe’s colleague motorcycle riders alleged that officers were asking for a $40 (£32) bribe to release the bike.
A regional police spokesperson Paul Kangave has said allegations that the officers were demanding bribes will be investigated.
Source: Africafeeds.com
