Police-bond application template (Uganda)
In brief
A precedent letter requesting police bond for a suspect held at a police station.
When to use this
While a suspect is in police custody and not yet charged in court.
When a bespoke document is needed instead: Once charged in court — apply for bail instead.
The template
A precedent only. Replace every [PLACEHOLDER] with your own details; it contains no real party data. Have it reviewed before use.
Heading
THE OFFICER IN CHARGE, [POLICE STATION]
[DATE]
Subject
RE: APPLICATION FOR POLICE BOND FOR [SUSPECT FULL NAME] (SD/CRB NO. […])
1. Detention
1.1 [SUSPECT], (NIN [NIN]) of [ADDRESS], is held at your station in connection with [alleged offence / matter]. We write on the suspect’s behalf.
2. Application
2.1 We apply for the suspect’s release on police bond pending the conclusion of inquiries. Police bond is free of charge.
3. Sureties
3.1 The following sureties are offered, with identification and contacts: (a) [NAME], NIN [NIN], [occupation], [contact], [relationship]; (b) [NAME], NIN [NIN], [occupation], [contact], [relationship].
4. Undertakings
4.1 The suspect undertakes to: (a) report to the station as and when required; (b) not interfere with witnesses or investigations; and (c) attend court if charged.
5. Constitutional note
5.1 We note that a person arrested must be produced in court within 48 hours; if bond is refused and that period is exceeded without charge, we reserve the right to seek the suspect’s release.
Execution
Yours faithfully, ____________ (Applicant / Advocate) Contact: [PHONE]
Drafting notes
- It is free
- Police bond is free of charge — do not pay for it.
- Sureties
- Offer credible sureties with identification, occupation and contact details.
- Undertakings
- Record the suspect’s undertakings to report, not interfere and attend — they reassure the officer in charge.
- 48-hour rule
- If bond is refused and detention exceeds 48 hours without charge, raise the constitutional 48-hour rule and seek a lawyer.
Execution requirements
- The applicant or advocate signs and submits to the officer in charge.
- A police officer in charge may release a suspect on bond pending inquiries (Police Act s.25); bond is free (s.39).
- If refused, consider court bail once the suspect is charged.
Governing law & citations
Governed by the Police Act, Cap. 324 (2023 Revision), ss.25, 39, and art. 23 of the Constitution.
- Police Act, Cap. 324 (2023 Revision) — ss.25, 39.