Over 100 residents of Kahunyira Cell, Rwamucucu Sub County in Rukiga district stormed offices of the Kabale District State Attorney, protesting the release of people who had been arrested for murder.
The angry residents led by the Rukiga District Vice Chairman Eddy Mugisha marched to the Attorney’s office and demanded an explanation for the release of men who were arrested in the murder of one Deus Twinomugisha, who was murdered on 7th September, 2017.
The body was found lying along the path to his home.
Police arrested Desire Mwebaze, Ambrose Mugabirwe, Baraka Ntegyereize and Gerald Karugaba in connection to the murder.
However, residents were shocked to learn that two of the suspects, Baraka Ntegyereize and Ambrose Mugabirwe were released.
The lead protester Eddy Mugisha said locals needed to be given clear reasons why the two were released. If not he said the people would be forced to take matters into their hands.
Elly Maate, the Kigezi Regional police spokesperson saysthe suspects were set free on instructions of Directorate of Public Prosecution in Kabale on grounds that their files lacked enough evidence.
Kabale Resident District Commissioner Darius Nandinda on learning about the release however, directed police to re-arrest the suspects saying that a murder case is strong and should not be treated lightly.
“We should get serious sometimes. If we treat murder suspects like chicken thieves this is unfair to our people. Let us have them re-arrested,” said Nandinda.