The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Masindi, Emmy Ngabirano, has dismissed claims linking the tragic death of Dr. Jino Abiriga, the former acting District Health Officer (DHO), to politics or tribal motives. Ngabirano stated that investigations are focused on criminal elements, suggesting a possible internal arrangement.
Dr. Abiriga, also a gynecologist at Masindi Hospital, was found dead on January 7 in a neighbor’s compound in Kijura North, Central Division, Masindi Municipality, with injuries to his neck and abdomen. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised suspicions, prompting a thorough investigation by the police.
A team of investigators spent the entire day at the crime scene reconstructing the events with the assistance of the deceased’s wife. They explored a pit latrine where suspects might have disposed of materials used in the crime, retrieving unconfirmed items during the process.
On Monday, four family members, including children, the wife, and the maid, were arrested to aid the police in their investigations. The decision to detain them was based on the discovery of blood stains in the house. Albertine region Police spokesperson, Julius Allan Hakiza, explained that their arrest is to help clarify the circumstances surrounding the presence of blood stains in the house.
Ngabirano emphasized that the arrested suspects are cooperating with the investigation, stating that they are not far from the truth. The RDC highlighted the need to understand how Dr. Abiriga left the house, given that his body was found a few meters away in the compound.
As part of the ongoing investigation, Dr. Abiriga’s body has been transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for an independent post-mortem examination. The deceased had served as the acting DHO for approximately two years, accumulating about 30 years of service at Masindi Hospital. He also owned Wanainchi Clinic, a private clinic located in Masindi town.
During a vigil, various speakers, including residents, health workers, and politicians, called for justice and speedy investigations into the tragic incident.
