By George Bukenya
Western Uganda—As the joint security agencies intensify investigations and pursue other suspected members of the criminal gang in Kazo and Ibanda districts, police have arrested another suspect in connection with the killings of three people.
The suspect is identified as Obogere Ayub ,28, and was arrested on October 15, 2026, at Independence Park in Swahili Cell, Mbarara City. Having been suspected by police of participating in the fatal attacks, during which the victims were killed and robbed of their properties.
The Police spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma said on Monday at the forces headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, that Ayub had reportedly admitted participating in the Ibanda murder and provided information that could help investigators track down other suspected members of the group.
“According to findings, Ayub is also suspected of involvement in the killing of Asimwe Rashida in Kazo District on August 27, 2026. He is also believed to be associated with Tosime Hickson, commonly known as Kabuto, who was arrested on October 12, 2026,’’ ACP Rusoke said.
The arrests followed a series of violent attacks in the two districts that left three people dead and prompted police to strengthen security operations in the affected communities after the visit of IGP two weeks ago.
The first attack occurred on the night of August 28, 2026, when four family members were reportedly attacked with machetes at their home in Renshambya IV Village, Kayihangara Sub-county, Ibanda District and the victims in this incident included two adults and two juveniles.
Two of the victims later scammed to death due to severe injuries at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. They were identified as Kenguto Margaret, 76, and Kwesiga Anthony, 13.
Police also said several suspects had previously been arrested and taken to court in connection with the attack. “Ayub’s arrest is expected to assist investigators in establishing the full circumstances and reasons of the killings and identifying other people allegedly involved,’’ ACP Rusoke revealed.
In the second incident, which occurred on August 27, 2026, in Mpuga Cell, Lemba Sub-county, Kazo District, a one Rashida was reportedly sexually assaulted and strangled. She later died from her injuries, while her attackers allegedly robbed her money and other belongings.
Police still suspect Ayub and other members of the alleged criminal gang of participating in the attack as investigations continue.
Rusoke said the arrests followed intensified security operations initiated after the Inspector General of Police visited the affected areas to assess the security situation and guide the response.
The IGP reportedly directed that additional personnel and logistical support be deployed, including motorcycles to strengthen patrols and improve officers’ operational capacity.
Police are also working with other security agencies to conduct intelligence-led operations aimed at identifying, locating and arresting suspects linked to the attacks.
The forces mouth piece said investigators further identified Frank Mujisha, commonly known as Muhima, and Asasira Pofia as suspects allegedly involved in purchasing property believed to have been stolen during the criminal activities.
The two are suspected of facilitating the alleged criminal group by buying stolen items. Police said investigations were ongoing to establish the extent of each suspect’s involvement and determine whether other individuals participated in the crimes.
According to Rusoke, the security interventions have contributed to a reduction in similar reported incidents in Kazo, where no comparable cases had been reported since October 2. Police have pledged to continue with the operations until all suspects linked to the attacks and related offences are apprehended.
The arrests come amid efforts by security agencies to restore public confidence and strengthen security in Ibanda, Kazo and the neighbouring areas following the deadly attacks in August.
Police therefor, urged members of the public to continue sharing information that could assist investigators in tracking down the remaining suspects and preventing further criminal activities.