By Sylvia Kugonza
The Fort Portal Central Division police are facing criticism following the death of a 23-year-old boda boda rider identified as Davis Tumuhairwe.
Tumuhairwe, who hails from Nyabwina village in Kabarole district, was arrested last week by the OC of the Link Bus Police Post and was later found deceased in River Mpanga.
According to reports, Tumuhairwe had a confrontation with an unidentified car washer, leading to a physical altercation.
Allegedly, the car washer then enlisted the help of gang of boys led by Fred Baziraki, a well-known bouncer from Bukwali village, purportedly acting on the orders of the OC.
Eyewitnesses claim Tumuhairwe was assaulted, arrested, and later released by the OC, who is now at large. It’s further alleged that Tumuhairwe could have been pursued by unknown individuals and subsequently went missing.
After the arrest and release of the car washer, who confessed to Tumuhairwe’s supposed drowning in River Mpanga, tensions rose among residents. The situation was worsened by the discovery of Tumuhairwe’s body by locals from Rwengaju, fueling their anger.
Locals Unhappy with Police
Upon discovery, authorities retrieved the body and transferred it to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem , prompting questions from locals about the police’s handling of the case.
Residents voiced frustration, accusing the police of complicity with criminals.
The Kabarole district Speaker, Timothy Ruhweza, urged calmness among residents and pledged forensic investigations into Tumuhairwe’s death.
Central Division Police Commander SP Kisubi Henry confirmed the incident and stated that the police are actively pursuing their officer and others to assist in the investigation.
