Ugandan joint security forces have arrested the suspected ringleader of a violent gang accused of terrorizing coffee traders across the Greater Masaka region, following a deadly shootout with police in Kyotera District.
Masaka Police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye confirmed the arrest of the suspect, identified as Bruno Juuko, believed to be the commander of the gang behind a series of armed robberies in Kalisizo and neighboring districts.
“Yesterday at around 8:30pm, Bruno Juuko, the group’s commander, was captured. We commend our gallant officers for dismantling this notorious racket,” Kasirye said.
The arrest followed a police chase on July 22, after five armed men stormed Mazima Bugaga Coffee Factory in Kifuta Village, Kyotera District.
The gang, riding on motorcycles and armed with two rifles, robbed the factory manager, Andrew Kaggwa, at gunpoint, fleeing with shs50 million Ugandan shillings.
Police say the robbers attempted to escape towards Masaka via Kyesiga, but were intercepted in Kizigo Village during a coordinated operation involving local and regional security units.
During the confrontation, one suspect, Lawrence Ssenyuumu, was fatally shot.
Police recovered two rifles, a motorcycle used in the heist, and other critical evidence.
Four other managed to escape, and security continues to pursue the remaining suspects.
“We are actively pursuing the remaining suspects. Let this serve as a warning to anyone thinking of taking the path of crime, it’s a dead end,” Kasirye said.
He urged communities to report any suspicious activity and choose lawful means of survival.
The deceased’s body was taken to Masaka Regional Referral Hospital for a postmortem examination. Authorities praised the swift response from local commanders and the cooperation of the public in aiding the investigation.
Security operations remain active as investigations continue into the robbery and related incidents in the area.
