Ugandan Police Officers Caught Red-Handed: Rob Rwandan Businessman Shs. 260,000 At Gunpoint

Two police constables stationed at Katuna border police station in Kabale district find themselves in hot water after allegedly robbing a Rwandan businessman at gunpoint. The suspects, identified as Gracious Tusiime, 25, and Zechariah Ekiyankundire, 26, are facing serious accusations of misconduct.

According to reports, the incident occurred on March 1, 2024, when the constables intercepted Thomas Habanabakize, a 38-year-old Rwandan national, as he legally crossed into Uganda through the Gatuna-Katuna border. Habanabakize, a resident of Rwambu village in Gicumbi district, Northern province, Rwanda, was carrying 85,000 Rwandan Francs (approximately Shillings 260,000) for business purposes.

Allegedly accusing him of possessing fake currencies, the constables proceeded to rob Habanabakize at gunpoint. They forcibly took all the money he had on him.

Elly Maate, the police spokesperson for the Kigezi region, confirmed the incident, stating that preliminary investigations revealed the constables’ involvement in the robbery. Following the ordeal, the constables allegedly ordered the victim to return to Rwanda through the porous border or face consequences.

Habanabakize, upon returning to Rwanda, lodged a complaint with Rwandan security authorities, who promptly engaged their Ugandan counterparts. Subsequently, the suspects were arrested.

The arrest of these police constables underscores the commitment of both Ugandan and Rwandan authorities to combatting criminal activities and ensuring the safety and security of individuals crossing the border. Investigations into the matter continue as the suspects face legal repercussions for their alleged actions.