Authorities are investigating a case of fatal shooting involving a suspected cattle thief in a tense turn of events in Lyantonde, Greater Masaka.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of May 28, 2024, at 1:30 am, prompting the territorial police to launch an inquiry into what has been recorded as a murder case under reference GEF 009/2024 by Lyantonde police.
Twaha Kasirye, spokesperson for Greater Masaka police, shed light on the incident, initially reported by an anonymous Military officer via telephone. Security personnel intervened as a group of cattle thieves were allegedly in the process of slaughtering a bull, believed to be stolen from a nearby farm. During the confrontation, one suspect was fatally shot by army personnel dispatched to the scene.
Following the report, a team comprising police officers, the homicide unit, and the Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) swiftly responded to manage the situation. The body of the deceased, identified as Edson Kamuhanda, was retrieved and taken to Lyantonde Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
Upon examination of the scene, three discharged cartridges were recovered, indicating close-range gunfire by the involved army officers. Kamuhanda’s body bore multiple bullet wounds, primarily to the chest and legs, consistent with close-range shooting, as outlined in a Police report.
Additional items recovered from the scene included Kamuhanda’s identification, a slaughtered bull with distinctive markings, tied with rope, and various tools commonly associated with cattle theft such as a panga, knife, and a sack weighing 25 kilograms.
However, the involvement of two army officers present at the scene, who subsequently disappeared before further questioning, has raised concerns and will be thoroughly investigated as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The incident has elicited a significant response from the local community, stirring a mix of opinions regarding the use of lethal force by security personnel. While some residents have endorsed stringent measures to combat cattle theft, others are advocating for more regulated and humane law enforcement practices.
In response to community concerns, Kasirye affirmed the police’s commitment to conducting a comprehensive investigation into the matter. He stressed that while security forces have a duty to safeguard property and lives, the use of force must always be justified and in compliance with the law.
Further updates on the investigation will be provided as it progresses, ensuring transparency and accountability in addressing this sensitive issue.
