Police in Rubirizi District have launched investigations into a case of aggravated defilement involving a 14-year-old juvenile and her biological father.

The incident reportedly occurred on June 4, 2025 in Nyakihanda Village, Butoha Parish, Magambo Sub-county. The suspect, Julius Nyesiga, 37, has been identified as the father of the victim and is said to have been living with the girl’s family.

Apollo Tayebwa, the acting Greater Bushenyi police spokesperson confirmed the incident and stated that police have already apprehended Nyesiga. “We are currently investigating the matter thoroughly. The juvenile has undergone a medical examination to determine her health status and gather evidence necessary for prosecution,” Tayebwa explained.

He added that police are continuing with their investigations and are committed to ensuring justice is served. The suspect remains in custody as the case progresses.

Authorities have called for community support in handling such sensitive cases and emphasized their commitment to protecting minors from abuse.

Members of the Kazo District Local Government, Members of Parliament and community supporters convened yesterday at Buremba Secondary School’s main hall for a crucial reconciliation meeting.

The gathering was led by Kato Paul Rubarenzya, the newly elected NRM Chairman for Buremba Town Council. During the meeting, Kato urged his supporters and those of his rival, Nasasira Emmanuel Magango to set aside electoral disputes and focus on the developmental progress of Buremba. “Let us settle our differences, clear our minds and work together to elevate Buremba Town Council to new heights,” Kato emphasized.

Magango who contested against Kato for the same leadership position expressed his commitment to unity and pledged support for the newly elected chairman. “Our shared goal is peace and development. I am ready to work with Kato to bring positive change to Buremba,” Magango stated.

Supporters from both sides also expressed their willingness to maintain peace and support the area’s growth. Fred Ruhambana and Michael Mugume representing the supporters assured their dedication to fostering harmony and embracing development initiatives.

Hon. Jennifer Muhesi, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kazo District praised the reconciliation effort saying, “This is a good step towards unity. It’s important that we work together for the prosperity of Buremba.”

The meeting concluded on a hopeful note with leaders and residents committed to putting aside past differences and focusing on development and lasting peace in Buremba.

The National Drug Authority (NDA) has announced the arrest of Tumusiime Harriet an enrolled comprehensive nurse during an intelligence-led operation. The nurse was apprehended in possession of and suspected of selling government-marked medicines and medical devices which are not for sale.

Abiaz Rwamwiri, the NDA Spokesperson confirmed the arrest and provided details about Tumusiime’s background. He stated that she is a resident of Alliance, Kakooba in Mbarara City.

According to Rwamwiri, through intelligence investigations, Tumusiime was found in possession of various government-marked medicines and medical items including cardiac aspirin, labor-inducing drugs for women, multivitamins for malnourished children, malaria testing kits and surgical gloves. These items are clearly marked as government property and are not authorized for sale.

Rwamwiri further revealed that the suspect is believed to be working with Rubaya Health Center II in Kashari county Mbarara district and operates a private drug shop in Mbarara City where she was found selling these government medicines unlawfully.

Tumusiime appeared before Mbarara Grade I Magistrate yesterday and was remanded until July 1 when her case will be scheduled for hearing.

This arrest is part of the NDA’s ongoing crackdown on the theft and illegal sale of government drugs. Since March 2024, the authority has recovered government medicines valued at over 6 billion Ugandan shillings.

The NDA urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drug-related activities to authorities to help curb the illegal trade in government medicines.

Teachers and pupils at Rwenjeru Primary School in Bushenyi Ishaka Municipality have raised concerns over the sharing of pit latrines citing safety and hygiene issues. The concerns were voiced by the school headteacher, Scovia Kamayangi during the handover of 14 twin desks donated by the municipality held at the school premises.

Kamayangi explained that the newly constructed latrine is located far from the school making it insecure and inconvenient for learners and staff. As a result, pupils have had to abandon the new latrine and continue sharing an old pit latrine raising fears over sanitation and safety.

She also noted that despite government efforts to deploy enough staff, the school’s enrollment remains low with over 130 pupils currently enrolled. Kamayangi appealed for additional support to improve facilities and increase student numbers.

Milton Betungura, the Deputy Mayor of Bushenyi Ishaka Municipality responded to the concerns by urging the school management to focus on improving academic performance. He attributed the low student turnout partly to poor academic results and called on parents to support the school actively.

Betungura emphasized the importance of maintaining the furniture provided by the government and urged the school management to take ownership and ensure proper upkeep so the furniture can serve their intended purpose.

Adrine Kyosimire, the Lady Councilor representing Rwenjeru in Mazinga Ward credited the achievements to the cooperation between elected leaders and the community. She appealed for continued support to enhance the school’s facilities and performance.

The ongoing concerns highlight the need for improved infrastructure and community engagement to boost enrollment and ensure a safe, conducive learning environment at Rwenjeru Primary School.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Dr. Diana Atwine, has officially confirmed the deployment of 102 Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) in Kazo District. This development marks a significant step in strengthening healthcare services at the community level within the district.

Last year, the Ministry of Health launched a program to train Community Health Workers across 14 districts where Kazo District was one of those selected. Each of the 51 parishes selected two people to participate in the training. The training of these health workers took place from March to June 2024 and today they received their confirmation letters along with essential equipment to commence their duties.

The supplied equipment includes bicycles, mobile phones, gumboots and other tools aimed at facilitating their work and improving service delivery at the grassroot level.

Dr. Atwine urged Ugandans to be vigilant and take care of their health to prevent the spread of Mpox, a disease that has been increasing in the country. She emphasized the importance of community participation in health initiatives and advised CHEWs to work diligently as they have been officially commissioned to serve.

Esther Bule, the District Health Officer (DHO) for Kazo district shared insights into the challenges faced during the training process. She highlighted the difficulties encountered and the ongoing health sector challenges within the district emphasizing the need for continued support and resources.

Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda, the District Chairman expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health for their support to Kazo District. He assured the community that the district is committed to improving health services and thanked all stakeholders involved.

Hon. Dan Atwijukire Kimosho, MP for Kazo Constituency commended the CHEWs for their patience and dedication during the training period. He urged them to maintain their enthusiasm and serve their communities wholeheartedly. He reminded them that their efforts are vital in boosting health activities across the district.

Several CHEWs, including Lydia Kihembo, Radicle Natamba and John Mukundane, pledged to work tirelessly and wholeheartedly to improve health outcomes, promising to serve the community with dedication and professionalism.

This deployment is expected to enhance community health services in Kazo District bringing healthcare closer to the people and addressing local health challenges more effectively.

Mitooma District Roads Committee has handed over the District Engineer, John Baptist Tumwebaze to police for arrest as investigations begin into the alleged misuse of road funds.

The decision was made during a roads’ committee meeting held yesterday at the district headquarters chaired by Committee Chairman Capt. Mugabe Donozio Kahonda. Kahonda ordered the arrest of Eng. Tumwebaze after he failed to provide clear accountability for the third quarter road fund.

Speaking after the meeting, Capt. Kahonda stated, “The engineer has diverted funds from what the committee approved. We have discovered that UGX60 million is missing and this cannot be tolerated.”

Kahonda emphasized the importance of accountability, adding, “We are committed to ensuring that funds allocated for development are used appropriately. Any deviation will be met with decisive action.”

Karyeija Benon, the Mitooma District Chairperson, also voiced firm resolve against embezzlement. “As leaders, we are ready to fight any form of financial misconduct. It is essential that all technical personnel provide transparent and accountable services,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Kibuka Francis, the Mitooma District Resident District Commissioner (RDC), highlighted the security implications of the issue. “As part of the security team, we are prepared to implement the decisions of the roads committee. Embezzlement of funds is also a matter of insecurity and we will not tolerate it,” he asserted.

The district authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling corruption and ensuring proper management of public resources to foster development and public trust.

Police in Rukungiri district are actively investigating and hunting for suspects believed to be responsible for the murder of Muhumuza Robert, 28 also known as Muja a resident of Ruyonja Cell, Nyarushanje Parish, Rukungiri District. The incident occurred on the night of June 2 at Ikondere Cell, Ibanda Parish, Nyarushanje Sub-County.

According to police reports, the deceased was last seen on June 1 around 10:00 p.m. when he went with Mwesigwa Hillary from Nyarushanje Trading Centre. The two, reportedly intoxicated decided to spend the night at Mwesigwa Hillary’s residence.

In the early hours of June 2 at around midnight, a group led by Turyahabwe Benson, the area chairperson of Ikondere Cell reportedly arrived at the residence. Turyahabwe, along with his wife Christina their employee Girigori, and others knocked on the door where Muhumuza and Mwesigwa were sleeping. When Mwesigwa opened the door, the suspects allegedly tied the two men with ropes and began assaulting them, accusing Muhumuza of stealing Benson Turyahabwe’s coffee from his home.

The assault drew the attention of Akampa Felix, brother to Mwesigwa Hillary, who intervened to stop the suspects from further violence. The suspects then left the scene leaving Muhumuza Robert and Mwesigwa Hillary in pain and distress.

Mwesigwa Hillary realized his colleague Muhumuza Robert had died and informed his brother, Akampa who reported the matter to police.

A murder case was immediately registered at Rubabo Police Station. Authorities visited the scene, documented evidence, recorded witness statements, and conducted a post-mortem examination on the deceased.

Police are currently on the trail of the suspects,Turyahabwe Benson, Christina Turyahabwe and others who remain at large. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend them and bring justice for Muhumuza Robert.

This tragic incident has raised concerns about community safety and the need for heightened law enforcement to prevent such violent acts in the region. Police urge anyone with information about the suspects’ whereabouts to come forward to aid in their swift apprehension.

Police in Rubanda district are investigating circumstances under which two men in at Nyamuriro Wolfram mining site in Rubanda on the night of June 3. Two individuals lost their lives after being buried by sand during an illegal mining operation while the third one is still at large. They reportedly sneaked into the mining site to carry out unauthorized sand extraction.

According to police reports, the three individuals entered the site around 5:00 a.m. on June 3, they became trapped in a sand-filled hole leading to the death of two of them on the spot while the third person whose identity has not yet been established managed to escape unhurt and remains at large.

The victims have been identified as Acleo Bushato, 27 and Muhumuza both male residents of Kalere Trading Centre,Kara Parish in Muko subcounty.

Police reportedly received a distressing call from the officer in charge of Nyamuriro Mineral Police Post. The police team led by the District Police Commander (DPC) responded swiftly to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the bodies had already been retrieved from the site but discovered police guards and Onesmus, the former chairperson of KI3R Mining Company Limited at the scene.

In an effort to prevent further illegal activities, the police including officers from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) conducted community policing exercises in Kalere Trading Centre. Authorities are urging the public to desist from illegal mining practices that pose serious safety risks.

The police have launched investigations into the incident and are actively pursuing the suspect who escaped. They also continue to warn the community against unauthorized mining activities that endanger lives and property.

This tragic incident underscores the dangers associated with illegal mining operations in the region, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of mining laws and enhanced community awareness.

Police in Rukungiri district have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of Sunday Innocent Akim, 23, a nresident of Ncwera Cell, Rweshama Parish, Bwambara Sub-county.

Kigezi region police spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate identified the suspects as Moses Mujuni and Goodrah Mugabirwe. The suspects are in detention as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding Akim’s death.

Further details about the incident and the motive for the killing have not yet been disclosed. Authorities have assured the public that they are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The government of Uganda has allocated UGX200 million for the construction of a new central market in Kabwohe town in Sheema Municipality. The announcement was made over the weekend by Sheema Municipality Member of Parliament, Dicksons Kateshumbwa during a meeting with market vendors.

Kateshumbwa revealed that the new market which is situated along the Kabwohe–Masheruka road, will be constructed by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Engineering Brigade. He explained that the current market would be affected by the upcoming tarmacking of the road and to prevent disruption of business particularly for the women who constitute the majority of vendors; construction of the new facility will commence before road works begin.

However, he acknowledged that the allocated funds might not be sufficient to complete the entire project. He assured traders that those currently operating in the existing market would be given priority for space once the new market is operational and emphasized the need to engage the municipal council authorities to consider reducing the taxes levied on vendors which many find burdensome.

Kateshumbwa said“We are committed to ensuring that vendors are not left stranded during the road upgrades and we will do our best to support them through this transition.”

Juliet Kebirungi, the chairperson of the Kabwohe Mid-Market, welcomed the development but highlighted several pressing challenges facing the current market. She pointed out issues such as lack of electricity, poor sanitation and the absence of a perimeter fence all which hinder the effective operation of the market. Kebirungi also reiterated concerns over high taxes despite the market hosting over 150 vendors.

The planned construction aims to improve trading conditions and address infrastructure gaps, promising a more conducive environment for both vendors and shoppers in Kabwohe.