Manhunt launched for escaped robbery suspects

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A joint security hunt has been mounted for three aggravated robbery suspects who escaped from Muhooti Military Barracks.

The escapees are Richard Aliganyira, aged 34, Chris Ruweeza, 25, and 31-year-old Bashir Kasaija.

Confirming the escape in on April 24, 2024, statement, Maj. Bilal Katamba, the UPDF Mountain Division public information officer, said the escapees were set to appear in the military court martial on aggravated robbery charges.

“On 23rd April 2024, three detainees who were meant to appear before the Mountain Division Court Martial, escaped from the detention facility at Muhooti Barracks,” he said in a media statement.

He said the civilian suspects had been arrested late November last year after robbing with a gun but didn’t disclose the scene of crime (s).

Five soldiers detained

Maj. Katamba, who also doubles as spokesperson of Operation Shujaa, a joint operation against the Allied Democratic Front (ADF) terrorists based in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), said the army was holding five soldiers over the escape.

“The UPDF Mountain Division is holding five soldiers, including the facility's guard commander, to help with the ongoing investigation,” he said.

He added that “different security agencies have been notified about the incident, and all efforts are underway to re-apprehend the trio to face justice.”

“We will keep the general public updated on any progress regarding the matter," Maj. Katamba said.