By Infora Media
KISORO, Uganda — Police have arrested three officers following the fatal shooting of a boda boda rider during an operation aimed at recovering a suspected stolen motorcycle in Kisoro District, authorities have confirmed.
The deceased, identified as Hassan Mwijuke, 26, a resident of Gafuruzo Parish, was reportedly shot during a security operation targeting a motorcycle believed to have been stolen from Mbarara City.
Preliminary reports indicate that security personnel intercepted the rider during the operation before gunfire was discharged under circumstances that are now under investigation.
The Uganda Police Force confirmed that the three officers involved in the incident were immediately arrested and detained to assist with investigations.
Police authorities in the Kigezi sub-region said detectives have launched a comprehensive inquiry to establish the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.
Investigators are currently collecting statements from officers involved in the operation as well as eyewitnesses who were present at the scene.
Police officials said the operation was part of broader efforts to combat rising cases of motorcycle theft reported in several districts across western Uganda.
“The officers involved have been arrested to allow investigations into the incident and determine whether operational procedures were followed,” a police official said.
Authorities emphasized that any officer found to have acted outside the law will face disciplinary and legal action.
The incident has sparked concern among residents of Kisoro District, where boda boda transport remains a major source of employment for many young people.
Community leaders and residents have called on police to ensure transparency in the investigation and deliver justice to the family of the deceased.
Some residents questioned the circumstances that led to the use of lethal force, arguing that non-fatal methods could have been employed during the operation.
Police said the body of the deceased was taken to a health facility in Kisoro District for a post-mortem examination as investigations continue.
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain calm while detectives establish the facts surrounding the shooting.
The incident adds to ongoing national conversations about the use of force during security operations and the need for accountability among law enforcement officers.