EDITOR
Police in Mbarara have launched a serious manhunt for five suspects who escaped from custody at Ruti Police Station on Sunday night at around 10:00 PM, authorities have confirmed.
According to Robert Kanusu, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for Mbarara City South, the fugitives were facing charges of aggravated robbery. The circumstances under which they fled remain unclear, raising questions about the security measures in place at the facility.
Tragically, the pursuit of the escapees has already led to loss of life. During an attempt to rearrest the suspects, a police officer reportedly shot and killed Gordon Bogere, a businessman from Kibaya Cell, Nyakayojo Ward. Bogere had reportedly come to the station to assist in bringing a new suspect into custody at the time of the incident.
Kanusu revealed that the escapees had a history of fleeing from custody, having previously broken out of lawful detention in Kabale District. They were rearrested in Mbarara, where they had allegedly become involved in cattle and motor vehicle theft.
In response to the shooting, the police officer involved has been taken into custody at Ruti Police Station, pending further investigations.
Police continue to call on the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any information that may aid in the re-arrest of the fugitives. The situation remains under close review by security agencies.
