Trial Begins for SFC Soldier Accused of Family Massacre in Mayuge

(Mayuge) – A soldier from the Special Forces Command (SFC) and three civilians are currently on trial for allegedly murdering five family members in Mayuge district.

The trial began on October 28, 2024, at the division court martial in Nawanvubu village, Buwaaya sub-county. Pte. Robert Herberston Birivumbuka, along with his co-accused, Patrick Tagaba, 66, Sharif Mudhasi, 33, and Medie Muwubia, faced charges read by Lt. David Basiima. The prosecution outlined ten counts against them, including murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder. All defendants denied the allegations.

The prosecution presented details of the incident, which occurred on June 29, 2024, around 9:00 PM. Birivumbuka, who resides at Rwehendire Barracks in Kiruhura district, reportedly entered the home of his paternal uncle, Isaac Buyinza Mudhasi, and shot him along with four of his children: Nicholas Musasizi, 16; Elesi Kafuko, 15; Resty Kantono, 13; and Isaac Kitibwa Mudhasi, 6, who later died from his injuries at Iganga Hospital. Additionally, Mudhasi’s wife, Jessica Timujibwa, 34, and her sister, Viola Kyakuwaire, 30, were injured during the attack.

During the burial of the victims, Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Isanga Nakadama expressed President Yoweri Museveni’s condolences, offering 10 million shillings for burial and medical expenses. Nakadama, who also serves as the area MP, assured residents that the attackers would be held accountable. She mentioned that the court would likely visit the crime scene to gather further evidence.

As the trial unfolded, the accused were brought into the courtroom in handcuffs. Prosecution witnesses included the Buwaaya LC3 chairperson, Hussein Kamaali, who testified that the violence stemmed from a long-standing family dispute over land. Kamaali detailed how the deceased had been granted a larger portion of land by their late father, which had caused tension within the family. Despite attempts at mediation, the family could not resolve their differences.

Kamaali recounted a previous incident where unknown assailants had tried to ambush Buyinza, resulting in a police report. During this confrontation, a pair of sandals and a panga were found, later identified as belonging to Sharif Mudhasi, leading to further suspicion against the family.

Several other witnesses testified, including Siraji Tenywa Isabirye, the LC1 chairperson of Nawanvubu, and Edward Balidawa, the LC11 of Namatale parish. They described how they witnessed Birivumbuka entering the house and opening fire. Namukose, a sister-in-law of Buyinza, stated that she saw a man in black shoes, covering his face, shooting indiscriminately. Basalirwa, Buyinza’s son, also recounted the terrifying scene, noting he recognized the assailant as Birivumbuka due to his physical characteristics.

The trial will continue with more witnesses expected to testify. Maj. Jimmy Denis Omara, the SFC spokesperson, confirmed that the court proceedings will be thorough, with a panel that includes the defense counsel, Leut. Hirald Rugyendo, and judge advocate, Capt. Hassan Yakub Mulyante.