Mystery surrounds killing of Gulu University lab technician after night out

GULU - Police are pursuing a group of assailants suspected of trailing and murdering a laboratory technician attached to Gulu University following a night out at entertainment spots near the institution.

The deceased, identified as Chris Nyeko, 40, a laboratory technician at Gulu University and a resident of Forest cell, Pece Prisons ward in Laroo-Pece division, was found dead in the early morning hours of May 22, 2026, near St Peter’s Catholic Church, close to the university.

According to Aswa West Regional Police spokesperson David Ongom Mudong, preliminary investigations suggest the victim may have been followed by attackers after an apparent misunderstanding at one of the bars he frequented.

“Before the deceased was murdered, he was first seen on 21/05/2026 at around 11:30 pm in a shop around Jaka Gardens before shifting to D-Plus Bar around the university area where he always hangs out with friends,” Ongom said.

Police said Nyeko reportedly left D-Plus Pub at around 5:30 am and started walking home before he was attacked about 10 minutes later.

“At around 5:40 am near St Peter’s Catholic Church and Gulu University proximity, he was attacked by unknown assailants,” Ongom added.

Investigators believe the attackers could have picked a quarrel with the deceased from the places where he had spent the night before, trailing him as he headed home alone.

Further accounts obtained from residents near Welbongo Market reportedly indicate that the victim was heard shouting during an altercation moments before he was killed.

“The neighbours who heard someone shouting indicate there was an altercation between them before the victim was killed and his body searched by the attackers. Some of his belongings were robbed, possibly including his phone,” Ongom said.

Police officers led by the Officer in Charge of Gulu Central Police Station responded to the scene after receiving information from the public and found the body lying in a pool of blood in the middle of the road.

The deceased reportedly sustained a deep cut wound on the forehead, suspected to have been inflicted with a sharp object.

Homicide detectives and scene of crime officers documented the scene and collected forensic exhibits to support investigations.

Statements were also recorded from witnesses and other relevant persons as detectives intensified efforts to trace the suspects.

The body was later conveyed to Gulu Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examination.

Police have since urged members of the public to remain vigilant, especially during late-night movements.

“Much as this incident is regrettable, we urge people to prioritise personal security and safety to avoid life-threatening encounters, especially during night hours,” Ongom said.
Investigations into the murder are ongoing.