Police interview more witnesses as probe deepens into Tororo patrol shooting
Police arrested a suspect, identified as John Okello, 41, a resident of Pakamalungi ‘A’ Zone, who is currently detained as investigations continue under Magola SD Reference 02/05/01/2026 and CRR 04/2026.
Moses Mugwe, the Bukedi South Police regional Police spokesperson, said detectives are reconstructing the crime scene at Pakamalungi ‘A’ Zone in Magola sub-county and recording fresh statements. (File photo)
________________
Investigators in Tororo district have intensified inquiries into a violent incident in which an election special polling constable was fatally shot while on duty, with Police saying more witnesses have since been interviewed as the probe enters its second day.
Moses Mugwe, the Bukedi South Police regional Police spokesperson, said detectives are reconstructing the crime scene at Pakamalungi ‘A’ Zone in Magola sub-county and recording fresh statements to establish the exact circumstances under which the fatal shot was fired.
The incident occurred in the early hours of January 5, 2026, during a routine night patrol by officers from Magola sub-county Police Station.
According to Mugwe, the patrol team, led by Sgt Emmaculate Yeko and comprising 11 election special polling constables, had moved to Pochulu trading centre after finding people drinking alcohol late at night and advising them to disperse.
“As the officers continued with their foot patrol, an unidentified man suddenly emerged and grabbed Sgt. Yeko, who was armed with an AK-47, in an attempt to disarm her,” Mugwe said.
He added: “A struggle ensued, prompting the polling constables to intervene and rescue the officer and secure the firearm.”
During the scuffle, a bullet was discharged, critically injuring John Onyango, a 32-year-old election special polling constable attached to Magola Police Station.
Mugwe said Onyango was rushed to Tororo General Hospital and later referred to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Police arrested a suspect, identified as John Okello, 41, a resident of Pakamalungi ‘A’ Zone, who is currently detained as investigations continue under Magola SD Reference 02/05/01/2026 and CRR 04/2026.
Mugwe said investigators are focusing on how the struggle unfolded, the handling of the firearm, and the role of all parties present at the scene.
“We have since interviewed additional witnesses from the area and from within the patrol team as part of our effort to piece together a comprehensive account of what happened,” Mugwe said, adding that the findings will guide further action.