Police in Kisoro District have warned residents illegally possessing firearms to voluntarily surrender them to security agencies or risk arrest and prosecution before the military court.
Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson SP Nelson Tumushime said the warning follows the shooting deaths of three people in the district within one month. The victims include Barbrah Nasozi Kiyaga, who was killed at Mucha Lodge, and businessman Ntenziyaremye Africano and his wife, Peace Kyompaire, who were shot dead on October 17.
He attributed the circulation of illegal firearms in the district partly to Kisoro’s proximity to three neighbouring countries.
CUE IN SP NELSON…ON SHOOTINGS… RR//
SP Tumushime also revealed that a firearm belonging to a Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) officer in Kisoro was stolen and remains missing.
He dismissed reports that security agencies had recovered some of the guns allegedly used in the shootings, saying police had taken exhibits to Kampala for forensic examination to establish the firearms used in the killings.
He added that no suspect had been remanded in connection with the shootings, although some individuals had recorded statements with police.
CUE IN SP NELSON…ON LOST GUN…RR//
SP Tumushime said security agencies would conduct joint operations to identify people illegally possessing firearms and those involved in criminal activities.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary movements at night.
He also expressed concern over suspects released on court bail who return to the community, raising questions about the continued fight against crime.
CUE IN SP NELSON…ON OPERATIONS… RR//
