Security operations have been intensified in Ibanda District following a tragic incident in which a police officer was killed by a mob while on duty.
The Police Force is now actively searching for two individuals who were allegedly shot and injured by the officer before he was overpowered and killed.
Police Constable Suleiman Chemonges, aged 28, attached to Bisheshe Police Post, was deployed to provide security at the burial of Lazarus Kahangire, an inmate who had died on remand at Nyabuhikye Government Prison.
Kahangire had been facing charges of attempted murder in a land dispute case registered under IBD CRB 849/2023.
According to the Rwizi Region Police Spokesperson, SP Samson Kasasira, PC Chemonges was attacked by mourners during the burial ceremony on Sunday.
“PC Chemonges was deployed to ensure security at the burial. Unfortunately, he was attacked by mourners who accused him of wrongdoing, and in an attempt to defend himself, he discharged his firearm, injuring two individuals before he was killed by the mob,” SP Kasasira told Nile Post.
Kasasira revealed that police have since arrested 29 suspects in connection with the incident. However, the two individuals who were shot by Chemonges are still on the run and their whereabouts remain unknown.
“We are appealing to the public to provide any information that may lead to the arrest or location of these two suspects. It is crucial that they receive medical attention and that justice follows due process,” he said.
The police have not yet released the names of the two missing individuals but have confirmed that community cooperation will be key in tracking them down.
As investigations continue, the Police Force has condemned the act of mob justice, calling on citizens to respect the rule of law and allow justice to be served through legal means.
“Mob justice is not only unlawful but also endangers the lives of security personnel and civilians alike,” SP Kasasira added.
The body of Constable Chemonges was taken to a government mortuary at Ruhoko Health Centre for postmortem as the police continue with investigations.