A bride has been left traumatised after her big day was ruined by four police officers who barged into the reception and arrested her.
Local police in Mbarara, western Uganda stormed Christine Natuhwere's nuptial party on August 20, claiming she had stolen just under £220 before hauling her off into custody.
Her manager at Centenary Bank, Mirembe Henry, accused her of stealing the sum.
While the matter was investigated as a criminal complaint, police advised both parties to seek a civil solution at the end of July, according to a police press release.
After opening the case again, the regional chief decided to charge the woman with theft and order her arrest.
Cops said the officers involved caused a "public nuisance", and that they may have done so at Henry's behest.
They even used the complainant's vehicle to transport her to the jail, reports said.
The release added: "The arrest was disgraceful in front of the groom, family, friends, guests and in-laws.
"It turned out that what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life ended in a nightmare."
Police spokesperson Enanga Fred added the officers' behaviour in this case was "reprehensible and based on poor judgment".
Once news of the incident was relayed to the Regional Police Commander, the bride was immediately released with apologies extended to the "bride, the groom, family, in-laws, friends, guests and the church which wedded them".
The chief also suspended the four officers involved, and charged them with "discreditable conduct".
If the case is proved, they would be dismissed from the force.
One of the officers, Sargeant Ngabirano Richard was arrested and placed in custody while the other three are "still in hiding", the report added.
