If you or a relative is arrested in Uganda: checklist
In brief
An arrest is frightening, but you have constitutional rights. This checklist sets out what to do in the first hours and days — stay calm, assert your rights, and get a lawyer.
Who it's for & when to use it
Who it's for: Arrested persons, their relatives and friends.
When to use it: Immediately on or after an arrest.
When not to use it: As legal advice for a specific charge — get an advocate.
The checklist
1. Stay calm and assert your rights
- Do not resist arrest; you have the right to remain silent and to a lawyer.
- Ask the reason for the arrest, and note the station, the time and the officers involved.
2. Watch the 48-hour clock
- Insist on the 48-hour rule — a suspect must be produced in court within 48 hours of arrest (Constitution art. 23(4)).
- Note the exact time of arrest so the 48 hours can be counted.
3. Get a lawyer and tell family
- Engage an advocate, or ask a relative to, as early as possible.
- Tell a trusted family member or friend where you are held.
4. Secure release on bond or bail
- Ask the police about police bond — the officer in charge may release a suspect on bond pending inquiries, free of charge (Police Act s.25).
- If charged in court, apply for bail (Magistrates Courts Act s.75; Trial on Indictments Act ss.15–16).
5. Protect yourself
- Do not sign a statement you do not understand or agree with.
- Note any mistreatment and seek medical attention if needed.
Key authorities
- Constitution, art. 23 (rights of an arrested person; 48-hour rule).
- Police Act, Cap. 324 (2023 Revision) — ss.25, 39.
- Magistrates Courts Act, Cap. 19 (2023 Revision) — s.75; Trial on Indictments Act, Cap. 25 — ss.15–16.
Checklist · Criminal procedure.
Actively maintained.
Last reviewed 9 June 2026; next review due 9 December 2026.
This resource is a practitioner orientation and general information, not legal advice, and does not create an advocate–client relationship. It is AI-generated. Ugandan law changes and chapter and section numbers were revised in the 2023 Laws of Uganda. Verify every statute, rule, form, fee and authority against the current primary source — and the specific facts of your matter — before relying on it.