Ivan Lukungu, a 25-year-old boda boda cyclist from Kabuuma in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District, found himself before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court facing charges of aggregated robbery. The accusations stem from the alleged robbery of over sh2bn from the home of National Resistance Movement (NRM) party national treasurer, Amb. Barbara Nekesa.
Lukungu, also known as Palaso, appeared before Magistrate Grade One Ann Sarah Basemera on Monday, February 19, where he faced four charges related to the robbery. However, due to the severity of the charges, he was not allowed to enter a plea.
Magistrate Basemera informed Lukungu that she lacked jurisdiction over the capital offense, advising him to seek bail application in the High Court. Consequently, Lukungu was remanded until March 19, 2024, when the case is set for mention.
Lukungu’s arrest brings the total number of accused persons to 13, including Police officers attached to the counter-terrorism department, such as Police Constable Micheal Wango, PC Sharif Mugoya, and Sgt Dominic Idro. Other individuals charged in connection with the robbery include boda boda riders, businessmen, and a special hire driver.
The charges against the accused range from aggravated robbery to receiving and retaining stolen property, as well as being an accessory after the fact. The prosecution alleges that the accused, armed with guns, robbed multiple individuals of their mobile phones on December 5, 2023, in Kyeitabya zone, Makindye Division. Additionally, some of the accused are accused of receiving and retaining a significant amount of money stolen from Amb. Nekesa’s residence.
One of the officers, Sgt Dominic Idro, is accused of assisting PC Mugoya to evade punishment by helping him escape after the alleged robbery. The case highlights the serious nature of the allegations and underscores the importance of a thorough legal process in seeking justice for the victims.
