Tragedy struck Ruti Police Station in Mbarara South Division on the night of May 25, 2025, when a suspected jailbreak ended in the accidental shooting and death of a local businessman. The shocking events unfolded around 11:00 PM, revealing major security lapses and raising questions about preparedness and discipline within the police force.
According to police reports, the incident began when Bogere Gordon, a 52-year-old Munyankole businessman and resident of Market Cell in Ruti Town, arrived at the station to report a case of threatening violence. He had come to file a complaint against a man identified as Muhwezi Alfred. The suspect, Muhwezi, had already been arrested and was being escorted into custody at the time of the incident.
Unfortunately, key officers who were supposed to be on duty including AIP Byaruhanga Sarapio, Cpl. Kazuma Eddie, and Pc Mutabazi Coleb were absent at the time. This left only three female officers: PC Nabankima Justine, PC Ako Charity, and D/C Kyasimire Peruth, to manage the station.
As D/C Kyasimire and PC Ako escorted the suspect to the cells, a shocking turn of events occurred. When PC Ako opened the cell door, five dangerous suspects who were already in custody over serious charges ranging from aggravated robbery to illegal possession of a firearm suddenly attacked her. They overpowered and disarmed her, quickly removing the magazine from her firearm and dropping it on the ground.
Taking advantage of the chaos, the suspects Behangana Coleb, Ariho Tomson, Ahebwe Andrew, Agaba Allan, and Irankunda Gerald escaped through the main gate and fled towards the main road. In a moment of confusion and bravery, the civilian reporter, Bogere Gordon, attempted to follow and possibly help stop the fleeing suspects.
Back at the charge office, PC Nabankima Justine, the only officer who remained at the front desk, attempted to shoot at the escapees. However, in the heat of the moment and under immense pressure, she accidentally shot Bogere Gordon instead of the fleeing suspects.
Bogere was quickly rushed to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital but sadly succumbed to the gunshot wound a short while later. The weapon used in the shooting has since been recovered and kept as evidence. Police have opened files for escape from lawful custody and murder by shooting, and investigations are actively underway.
The incident has not only left a family in mourning but also highlighted major gaps in security protocols and the need for stronger training and discipline among officers. The public awaits answers, and justice, as the investigation continues.
