A tragic incident occurred at Ruti Police Station in Mbarara South Division on the night of May 25, 2025, when a local businessman was accidentally shot and killed during a dramatic escape by suspects already in custody. The deceased, Bogere Gordon, a 52-year-old businessman and resident of Market Cell in Ruti Town, had earlier on gone to the police station to report threats made against his life.
The man who had been threatening him, identified as Muhwezi Alfred, was later apprehended with the help of concerned community members. Together with the businessman, they escorted Muhwezi to the police station to file a formal report.
Upon arrival at the station around 11:00 PM, the group handed over the suspect to two female police officers, Detective Constable Kyasimire Peruth and Police Constable Ako Charity. These officers proceeded to escort the suspect into the holding cells.
However, as the officers were opening the cell door to lock up the suspect, chaos broke out. Five dangerous suspects already held in custody took advantage of the moment. The suspects, identified as Behangana Coleb (charged with theft), Ariho Tomson, Ahebwe Andrew, and Agaba Allan (all charged with aggravated robbery), and Irankunda Gerald (charged with illegal possession of a firearm), suddenly attacked the officers. They managed to disarm PC Ako Charity, grabbing her gun and removing its magazine before fleeing the station.
As the suspects ran toward the main road, the situation turned deadly. Bogere Gordon, possibly trying to assist or simply caught in the confusion, followed after them. Meanwhile, PC Nabankima Justine, who had stayed at the charge office, attempted to stop the fleeing suspects by opening fire.
Tragically, instead of hitting the escapees, one of the bullets struck Bogere Gordon. He was quickly rushed to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital but sadly died from his injuries shortly after arrival.
Police have since recovered the firearm used in the shooting and have opened investigations into both the escape from custody and the shooting death. Authorities are working to trace the escaped suspects and piece together the full sequence of events.
This devastating event has sparked concern and outrage among local residents, highlighting serious security and staffing gaps at Ruti Police Station. It also raises critical questions about police preparedness and the safety of civilians who come to law enforcement for protection.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a man who took a stand against violence only to lose his life in the very place he sought help.
