Martin Kipsanga, also known as Chesebe, the primary suspect in the murder of Dr. Jino Abiriga, has been transferred to Masindi for further investigation. According to sources at Masindi police station, Kipsanga was extradited on Friday morning and is set to participate in a reconstruction of the crime scene.
On Wednesday, Kipsanga, accompanied by Betty Cherotich, the widow of the deceased doctor, was taken to the scene of the crime under tight security. However, the media was not granted access to the location.
Dr. Abiriga, the acting district health officer in Masindi, was tragically murdered on Sunday, January 7, 2024, and his body was discovered in a neighboring compound. The circumstances surrounding his death prompted intense public interest and a thorough investigation.
Earlier this week, large crowds gathered at Masindi Central Police Station in anticipation of the suspects’ appearance, but the area was tightly secured by police and military personnel from the UPDF.
Kipsanga was apprehended by a joint security team on Thursday morning, January 11, 2024, in Bukwo district. He allegedly confessed to security forces that Cherotich had hired him and another individual to carry out the murder, promising them financial compensation.
The murder of Dr. Abiriga resulted in the swift arrest of his widow and three of his children after bloodstains were discovered in their home. Abiriga’s body was found with severe injuries about 50 meters away from his residence.
Betty Cherotich, along with her two biological children, was brought to court to provide an extrajudicial statement amidst heightened security measures. The media was not allowed access to the proceedings, and Cherotich reportedly confessed to her involvement in the crime.
Following investigations, the police released Dr. Abiriga’s children, who were initially detained in connection with their father’s murder. However, Cherotich and her two children remain in custody for further questioning. The case file will be reviewed by the resident state attorney, and legal action will be taken accordingly.
