Crime
Three Arrested in Kanungu for Possession of Government Drugs
Police in Kanungu have arrested three individuals for allegedly having government drugs.
The suspects have been identified as 51-year-old Musinguzi Alex, an Askari (security guard) attached to Kambuga Hospital in Kanungu District; 30-year-old Mwesigwa Milton, also known as Emmanuel, a businessman from Rwashamire East Central Ward in Kajara Town Council, Ntungamo District; and 28-year-old Kabyesiza Esau, a lab technician and sample transporter at Kanungu HUB, residing in Bugongo Cell, Nuakatungulu Ward, Kihihi Town Council.
According to Kigezi region police spokesperson Elly Maate, the arrest followed an incident on January 26, 2025, at around 5:00 PM. Lt. Gad Turyamureba, an intelligence officer attached to the Bukorwe battalion, received a tip-off from his team, who were on patrol when they spotted a boda boda rider near the Ishasha border attempting to cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Upon seeing the soldiers, the rider abandoned his motorcycle and fled.
Suspicious of the situation, the soldiers took the motorcycle to the Ishasha UPDF barracks for inspection. A search revealed a polythene bag containing government drugs, including five tins of Panadol, one tin of Chloramphenicol, and two boxes of Coartem (Lumartem).
The motorcycle was later traced back to its owner, identified as Kyokwijuka George, who claimed Musinguzi Alex had hired him. Kyokwijuka, along with the seized drugs, was handed over to Kihihi Police Station. Further investigations led to the arrest of Mwesigwa Milton and Kabyesiza Esau. Maate stated that Mwesigwa was found in possession of 81 syringes, while Kabyesiza had gloves—though the gloves were not government property.
The suspects have since recorded statements and remain in police custody as they await their court appearance.
