The tranquility of Kisoro district was shattered on the night of June 5, 2025, when armed assailants stormed a local bar in Natete village, Chihe parish, Nyakinama sub-county. The incident occurred around 10:00 PM, leaving several victims traumatized and out of pocket as the police launch a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Victims of the robbery included local businessmen and a peasant farmer, all residents of Kangoma village, Chihe parish. They were unwinding at the shop of Irankunda Rogers, a 30-year-old businessman, enjoying local brew known as Kashera when the two assailants struck. One of the robbers was armed with an AK-47 assault rifle, while the other was masked, adding an element of intimidation to the already terrifying situation.
Initially, the victims mistook the attackers for security personnel, which delayed their compliance with the robbers’ orders to lie down and hand over their belongings. This hesitation was met with a warning shot fired into the air by the armed suspect, a move that made it painfully clear that they were in the presence of criminals, not protectors.
Overcome by fear for their lives, the victims complied, surrendering cash and mobile phones. The robbers collected substantial amounts of money, with Irankunda Rogers losing 800,000 UGX and two phones, while Kiizakola Silvan, aged 36, had 580,000 UGX and two phones stolen. Other victims included Kamugisha Gideon, 52, who lost 18,000 UGX and a smartphone, and Busekuro Stephen, 41, who was robbed of 2 million UGX and his smartphone.
ASP Elly Maate the Kigezi Region Police spokesman told the press that following the robbery, local residents swiftly alerted the District Police Commander (DPC) of Kisoro, SP Nuwamanya. He, along with a patrol team, the UPDF commanding officer, and a canine unit, responded promptly to the scene. Their arrival was critical in securing the area and beginning investigations.
The scene was meticulously documented by the Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO), who recovered three cartridges, two live bullets, and one projectile, which could provide vital evidence in the ongoing investigation. Fortunately, none of the victims sustained injuries during the incident, though the psychological impact of such a traumatic experience is likely to linger.
One of the most promising developments in the investigation is the existence of CCTV footage from the shop, where the robbery took place. The cameras installed by Irankunda Rogers captured the entire incident, potentially providing law enforcement with crucial visual evidence to identify the suspects. Authorities are optimistic that this footage will aid in their efforts to apprehend those responsible for the brazen attack.
The robbery has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about safety and security in Kisoro. Local leaders and residents are calling for increased police presence and more robust security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The fear of violence and crime has disrupted the peace that many in the community have enjoyed, particularly in public spaces where people gather to socialize and unwind.
The police have urged anyone with information that could lead to the identification and capture of the suspects to come forward. Community cooperation is vital in the fight against crime, and authorities are relying on the public’s assistance to bring the perpetrators to justice.
As the investigation continues, the Kisoro community remains on high alert, hoping for swift action from law enforcement to restore safety and peace in their neighborhood.
