Story by Aggrey Twesigye
Police in Ibanda District are holding 29 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of Police Constable Suleiman Chemonges, who was lynched during a chaotic burial ceremony on Sunday.
The incident occurred in Kyembogo Cell, Kalangala Parish, Bisheshe Division, where Constable Chemonges had been deployed to provide security at the funeral of Kahangire Lazarus, a remand prisoner who recently died while in custody at Nyabuhikye Government Prison.
Kahangire had been facing charges of attempted murder before his death, linked to a long-standing land dispute involving the family of Vincent Mbabazi, a well-known local businessman.
His burial, therefore, was already fraught with underlying tension, which erupted into violence upon the arrival of security personnel.
According to SP Samson Kasasira, the Rwizi Region Police spokesperson, PC Chemonges was attacked while attempting to maintain order at the burial site. A mob, reportedly consisting of Kahangire’s relatives and other mourners, turned violent, accusing the police of being complicit in Kahangire’s death.
In the midst of the confrontation, Constable Chemonges fired warning shots in an attempt to disperse the crowd and protect himself.
Two individuals were injured by the gunfire and are currently being sought by the police for questioning and treatment.
SP Kasasira confirmed that 29 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident. Investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to identify and pursue additional individuals believed to have participated in the attack.
Police have strongly condemned the incident, reiterating that acts of mob justice undermine the rule of law and will not be tolerated. Authorities have urged the public to allow lawful institutions to handle disputes and grievances.
Meanwhile, community leaders and security officials are calling for calm as the investigation unfolds, vowing that all those involved will be held accountable.
