EDITOR
Territorial police in Kisoro District are actively investigating circumstances under which Hon. John Kamara Nzeyimana, the Member of Parliament for the area, allegedly aided seven suspects to escape from lawful custody.
The incident occurred on Monday, July 28, 2025, at around 2:00 PM, shortly after the suspects had been arrested and brought to Kisoro Central Police Station for questioning over a case of arson and malicious damage to property.
According to Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate, the suspects—identified as Gasigwa Jeremiah, Harerimana Augustine, Nkurunziza Apollo, Bavuzayubusa Paskazia, Mujawimana Dinavance, Basekuye Teleza, and Hon. John Kamara himself—were linked to the May 3rd arson attack on the home of Mahoro Jackline following a village dispute.
“Instead of complying with police summons for interviews, the suspects allegedly sought protection from Hon. Kamara, who advised them to ignore police directives,” Maate explained.
Upon their eventual arrest, the suspects were brought to the station for statement recording. However, Hon. Kamara reportedly returned to the station, demanded their release on bond, and left angrily after being informed that the matter required further consultation due to its public interest.
Shockingly, moments later, Hon. Kamara returned, allegedly instructed the suspects to flee, and facilitated their escape using his vehicle. Efforts by the investigating officer to stop the escape were reportedly met with resistance.
A prompt operation led by OC Station SP Alex Tuhairwe and District CID Officer D/ASP Johnson Babiiha successfully re-arrested the suspects at Hon. Kamara’s residence. However, attempts to arrest the legislator himself were thwarted after he allegedly mobilized members of the community against the police.
“Inquiries are ongoing, and efforts to bring Hon. Kamara to book are underway,” ASP Maate confirmed. “It is disappointing to see a lawmaker act in defiance of the very laws he was elected to uphold. No one is above the law.”
Police say the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
