Two separate and deadly incidents involving security personnel have shaken Uganda’s Albertine region, leading to the arrest of two officers and reigniting public concern over the use of excessive force by armed security forces. The security officers arrested for fatal shootings include a police officer in Hoima and a UPDF soldier in Masindi.
Police Officer Arrested for Shooting Boda Boda Rider in Hoima
Reuben Kwihangana, a police officer attached to Hoima Central Police Station, was arrested for allegedly shooting and killing a boda boda rider, Mawala Mawejje, late Sunday night. The confrontation reportedly occurred after a head-on collision between Mawejje’s motorcycle and the officer’s bike at Lusaka Middle Cell, Hoima City.
Eyewitnesses claim Kwihangana accused Mawejje of reckless riding before pulling out his pistol and shooting him in the head, killing him instantly. The officer fled the scene but was tracked down and arrested by security agencies. According to police spokesperson Julius Hakiza, the murder weapon was recovered and will be used as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
UPDF Soldier Shoots Civilian in Masindi Bar Incident
In another case involving the security officers arrested for fatal shootings, Corporal Aggrey Byamugisha, a UPDF soldier stationed at Masindi Army Barracks, was arrested after allegedly killing a civilian in a bar. The incident took place at Brian’s and Trump Bar and Lodge in Masindi town during the early hours of Saturday morning.
The victim, identified only as Mugisha, a local hawker, was among the patrons when Byamugisha—dressed in civilian clothes—entered the bar armed with an AK-47 and began firing indiscriminately. Mugisha was hit and died instantly. The soldier was later apprehended in Masindi town and detained at the central police station.
Police recovered 14 used cartridges and one live bullet from the scene, which have been sent for ballistic analysis.
Public Outcry and Ongoing Investigations
The security officers arrested for fatal shootings now face serious charges, and investigations into both cases are ongoing. These incidents have triggered outrage among residents and civil society groups who are demanding accountability and reforms in how security forces handle conflicts and civilians.
Authorities have emphasized that no one is above the law and have pledged transparent legal proceedings for both suspects.
Conclusion
The arrests of a police officer and a UPDF soldier for fatal shootings in Hoima and Masindi highlight the urgent need for increased oversight and training within Uganda’s security forces. As investigations continue, the public calls for justice, accountability, and meaningful reforms to ensure such tragic incidents do not repeat.
