29 suspects in custody over policeman's murder at Ibanda funeral
PC Chemonges, 28, was attacked by a mob at the funeral at around 2:00 pm.
PC Chemonges Suleiman, 28, was attacked by a mob at the funeral at around 2:00 pm. (File)
By Jeff Andrew Lule
Journalists @New Vision
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A total of 29 suspects have been arrested in connection with the tragic murder of a police officer in Ibanda District.
On April 6, 2025, Police Constable (PC) No. 75290 Chemonges Suleiman, who was attached to Bisheshe Police Station, was assigned to provide security during the funeral of Kahangire Lazarus.
The funeral took place at Kambogo cell, Bisheshe division.
Kahangire, who had been facing charges of attempted murder, died while in custody at Nyabuhikye Government Prison in Ibanda.
The suspect had been arrested by police after a period of evading capture.
According to a statement from police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma, PC Chemonges, 28, was attacked by a mob at the funeral at around 2:00 pm.
The mob allegedly blamed him for his role in Kahangire’s arrest and subsequent detention. Despite Chemonges’ efforts to defend himself by firing warning shots, the mob overpowered him, ultimately leading to his tragic death.
Kituuma confirmed that police recovered an SMG rifle with 16 rounds of ammunition from the scene, while the officer’s body was later transported to the Ruhoko Health Centre mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
Kituuma noted that since the incident, the police have arrested 29 individuals in connection with the murder, and the search for additional suspects continues.
He condemned the violent act and assured the public that all those involved in the crime will be held fully accountable for their actions.
Samson Kasasira, the Rwizi police spokesman, said they suspect that Kahangire’s relatives were behind the attack on the officer.