NTUNGAMO— Police in Ntungamo District are investigating two separate cases after arresting 17 suspects in connection with robbery and murder in Rubaare Town Council.
According to police, 15 suspects have been charged with aggravated robbery and attempted murder, while 2 others face murder charges.
Police officials said the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, 14th July 2026, at around 6:00am. They received reports from concerned residents of Rwobubare, Rubaare Town Council, that suspected drug abusers raided Epic and Masape Bars in Kagango Ward and stole cash and items valued at over shs 2 million. The group also looted shops in Rubaare Town Council.
Officials added that the attack was allegedly in retaliation for the death of their friend, Derrick Owembabazi. His body was discovered in Rubaare Cattle Market with both eyes gouged out. Suspects allege he was killed overnight on Monday in one of the two bars.
The deceased, Owembabazi, was in his 20s and a resident of Nyeihanga Cell, Kyabukuju Ward, Rubaare Town Council. He was the son of Anatoli Ndebesa of the same address.
The situation turned violent on the morning of Tuesday, 14th July 2026, when an angry mob attacked two identified suspects, Dan Muhumuza and Innocent Safari, accusing them of orchestrating the killing. Police at Rubaare Police Station were alerted after residents were overpowered.
Police swiftly intervened and rescued the two suspects, who had been badly beaten by the mob that reportedly intended to lynch them.
All 17 suspects were first detained at Rubaare Police Station and later transferred to Ntungamo Central Police Station for further management as investigations continue.
Officials condemned the mob action and acts of robbery. “Residents should seek guidance from security officers instead of taking the law into their own hands,” one official said.
Story By: Amon Muhumuza,
Ntungamo District.
