Police Officer Arrested in Connection with Luuka Shooting During NRM Elections

The Police in Luuka District have arrested Detective Constable Emojong Denis to assist in investigations into the suspected murder of a 30-year-old man, Lwayanga Swaliki, who was shot dead during the NRM grassroots elections. Two other individuals sustained injuries during the same incident.

ASP Micheal Kasadha, the Public Relations Officer for the Busoga North Region, identified the injured as Ivan Oketch, a resident of Bulanga Central, and Peterson Nabugo, a resident of Waina Village, Baitambogwe Sub-county in Mayuge District.

The incident occurred at the playground of Noor Islamic Primary Teachers’ College in Luswiga Zone, Nantamu Ward, Bulanga Town Council, Luuka District.

According to ASP Kasadha, initial investigations reveal that the elections scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, 2025, were cancelled due to chaos. Party leaders subsequently reorganised a rerun, which took place today.

The election process began peacefully. However, it is alleged that one of the candidates mobilised youths from outside the area for undisclosed reasons. Tensions flared during the vote-counting process when a group of unruly youths surrounded the returning officer, demanding the premature declaration of Isebo Sulaimani as the winner.

Police officers, led by the area Officer-in-Charge (OC), attempted to restore order but were overwhelmed. The crowd reportedly began throwing stones, endangering the safety of police personnel and electoral officials.

In response, police officers discharged live ammunition. One person was killed, and two others were injured. The deceased was transported to Iganga General Hospital mortuary, while the injured are receiving treatment.

During the transportation of the body, Sgt Khaleke Noah, attached to Luuka Central Police Station, sustained an eye injury after being struck by a stone. He has since been referred to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for further treatment.