The Grade One Magistrate’s Court in Ibanda has further remanded nine suspects in connection with the brutal mob killing of a police officer during the burial of an inmate in Ibanda District.
The suspects, who appeared in court on Tuesday, include Gaston Muhwezi, 27, Mwesigye Sam Kikurungi, 53, Alfred Arinaitwe alias Mabere, 43, Christine Atuhaire, 37, Allen Nuwatuha, 23, Alex Ahimbisibwe, 18, Christine Komugisha, 19, Bayron Katungye, 29, and Acleo Kamugisha, 56, who was recently arrested and arraigned before the same court.
The group faces charges related to the murder of Suleiman Chemonges, a 28-year-old police officer attached to Bisheshe Police Post. Chemonges had been deployed to provide security during the burial of Lazarus Kahangire, a 47-year-old inmate from Nyabuhikye Prison who died while on remand.
It was during this event, held on April 6, 2025, in Bisheshe Division, that Officer Chemonges was reportedly attacked and lynched by a mob.
Speaking in court, the lead prosecutor, Mr. Ali Ssemakula, informed the Magistrate that investigations into the matter are still ongoing.
“We are still gathering crucial evidence to build a strong case,” he stated.
The late officer’s family members, who were visibly emotional in court, made a plea to have the case transferred to Kampala, citing the long distance and associated hardships in traveling to Ibanda for each hearing.
“It is difficult for us as a family to keep coming to Ibanda. We request that the case be transferred to Kampala where it is easier for us to follow proceedings,” said one of Chemonges’ relatives.
However, the presiding Magistrate explained that the court had no jurisdiction to grant such a request. “This court cannot authorize or the transfer of this case to Kampala. Such matters can only be addressed by the High Court in Mbarara,” the Magistrate stated.
The suspects were remanded until June 6, 2025, when they will reappear in court.