A police officer guarding a high-profile government official’s residence in eastern Uganda shot and killed a suspected intruder early Saturday morning, police said.
The fatal shooting occurred around 3:00am at a home in Bugunduhira B Village, Dabani Sub-county, Busia District, following what authorities described as an attempted burglary by an intruder.
The property belongs to Uganda’s State Minister for Regional Affairs, John Mulimba, though it remains unclear whether he was present during the incident or at his main home in Bulumbi.
Busia District Police Commander (DPC) Alice Kuka said the suspect, believed to be aged between 22-25, was allegedly part of a group behind a series of recent break-ins in the area.
“We strongly suspect the deceased was among those involved in ongoing burglaries in Bugunduhira,” Kuka said.
“Tools used to break padlocks and locks were recovered at the scene,” he added.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspect scaled the compound’s perimeter wall and attempted to access the home.
A police officer on duty spotted the intruder and opened fire as the man tried to flee, fatally shooting him near the fence.
Local council chairman Rajab Wanjofu said criminals had earlier broken into a nearby home, stealing money and a TV, and were likely targeting valuables at the minister’s residence.
“This is the third time the home has been targeted,” Wanjofu said, adding that in a previous attack, assailants made away with a television and Shs1.5 million.A
Witnesses said other members of the suspected gang fled as gunshots rang out, suggesting the intruder was part of a larger group.
Paul Nyongesa, a resident, said he was jolted awake by the sound of gunfire.
Police are investigating to determine whether the incident was a straightforward burglary attempt or had other motives.
By press time Saturday evening, the body had been taken to Masafu Government Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.