Police in Kisoro District have cautioned local leaders and members of the public against interfering with criminal investigations, warning that such actions are undermining efforts to combat rising crime in the area.
The District Police Commander (DPC), SP Edatu Cosmas, expressed concern over incidents where suspects are arrested and presented before authorities, only for some community leaders and influential individuals to later intervene and seek their release.
“If we are to fight crime in Kisoro, we must set aside friendship and personal relationships. Some people are arrested and brought here, but you find leaders coming to plead for wrong elements. That is very wrong and it makes our work very hard,” he said.
While briefing journalists at Kisoro Central Police Station, SP Edatu emphasized that police and other security agencies must be allowed to carry out their mandate independently. He urged leaders to support law enforcement efforts by encouraging communities to provide timely and accurate information about criminal activities and missing persons.
The DPC also called for stronger collaboration between police, local administration, and medical personnel to improve investigations and identification processes, particularly in cases involving unidentified bodies and missing persons. He appealed to residents to report information directly to police to facilitate investigations and enhance community safety.
CUE IN DPC EDATU….ON THE MATTER….ENG//
SP Edatu further warned bar owners against operating late into the night, saying the practice contributes to insecurity and creates opportunities for criminal activities.
He advised residents to avoid unnecessary late-night movements and urged parents to ensure that children, especially young girls, are not allowed to travel at night due to safety concerns.
CUE IN DPC EDATU….ON NIGHT MOVEMENTS….ENG//
The police commander made the remarks following a series of murder cases currently under investigation in the district.
Among the cases is the murder of 15-year-old Brenda Munezero, a resident of Mikingo Village in Busamba Ward, Southern Division, Kisoro Municipality. Her body was discovered along the Kisoro–Kabale Road near the Old Market area on Monday. Police have since arrested Vincent Mashengesho to assist with investigations into the case.
In another incident, two bodies were recovered and are currently being held at Kisoro Hospital Mortuary pending identification and postmortem examinations.
One of the deceased is an adult male of Mutwa origin, a casual labourer who had been working in Bukimbiri and is believed to be a Congolese national. Police have arrested two suspects in connection with the case.
Police are also investigating the murder of Elias Noheri, 37, a resident of Mpundu Cell in North Ward, Chahafi Town Council. Noheri was reportedly attacked by unknown assailants who also made away with his motorcycle. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Police say investigations into all the cases are ongoing.
