Security forces in Ibanda district have arrested a suspected robber and recovered an automatic rifle that was hidden in a swamp. This development follows a joint security operation that led to the recovery of an AK47 rifle and two live rounds of ammunition in Igorora village, Igorora town council, according to Rwizi region Police spokesperson Samson Kasasira.
The suspect, identified as Ashraf Kiiza, has been on the radar of law enforcement for some time due to his alleged involvement in armed robberies and cattle theft across multiple districts, including Mbarara, Kazo, Kiruhura, and Kamwenge. His ability to move between districts had made him elusive, but a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving the police, army, and Internal Security Organization (ISO) finally led to his arrest on October 10, 2024.
Kiiza is believed to have hidden the AK47 rifle, bearing the serial number UG PSO 56S 4101 385 13187, in a swamp. After his arrest, he was transferred to Bihanga Army Barracks for further interrogation, as he initially denied any involvement with the firearm during preliminary inquiries.
Kasasira explained that during further questioning, Kiiza revealed that he had obtained the gun from another suspected robber named Godfrey, who is from Kamwenge district. According to Kiiza, Godfrey had stolen the gun, though he did not disclose from whom or where the firearm was taken.
Efforts to trace the original owner of the weapon and the circumstances surrounding its theft are ongoing, as security forces continue their investigations. Kiiza is also believed to be connected to other suspects who remain at large, and authorities are working to track them down as part of the wider operation to curb criminal activity in the region.
The recovery of the gun and ammunition has raised concerns about the extent of armed robbery and cattle theft in these districts. It is hoped that the ongoing investigations will lead to more arrests and the dismantling of criminal networks operating in southwestern Uganda.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect Arrested | Ashraf Kiiza |
| Weapon Recovered | AK47 rifle, serial number UG PSO 56S 4101 385 13187 |
| Ammunition Recovered | 2 live rounds |
| Location of Arrest | Igorora village, Igorora town council, Ibanda district |
| Security Operation Involvement | Police, Army, ISO |
| Additional Suspects | Godfrey (from Kamwenge), others still at large |
| Suspected Crimes | Armed robbery, cattle theft |
| Districts Involved | Mbarara, Kazo, Kiruhura, Kamwenge |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
