Gunshots reverberated through the precincts of Jinja court on February 15 as warders from Kirinya prisons pursued two inmates attempting to escape while being returned to the suspects’ holding cell.
The inmates, identified as Ashraf Ssenoga, alias “Vampire”, and Abel Muwanika, alias “Abusale”, were making their fourth appearance before Grade One magistrate Ms. Anxious Atumanya. They faced charges of aggravated robbery following their arrest in December.
Before their attempted escape, the inmates had requested bail, which was denied by Ms. Atumanya due to the capital nature of their case, triable only by the High Court.
As they were being returned to the holding cell, the handcuffed suspects made a swift dash for the court gate, prompting gunfire that disrupted proceedings. Adjacent court sessions were halted as warders scrambled to pursue the escapees.
According to eyewitness Jacob Ngobi, the suspects were apprehended after reaching the court gate. One inmate sustained severe injuries to the mouth from gunfire, while the other was recaptured unharmed.
Fatima Bayiga, Ssenoga’s wife, expressed concern over her husband’s situation, fearing additional charges and uncertain release. Meanwhile, prisons spokesperson Mr. Frank Baine confirmed that the duo would face charges of attempted escape, emphasizing the prison’s security measures.
Baine revealed that amidst 24 inmates being escorted to court from Jinja remand prison, two attempted escape after their court appearance. Despite three shots fired by an officer, the suspects persisted in fleeing. Muwanika sustained injuries and was taken to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for treatment.
