Shock As UPDF Officer & Army Deserter Linked To NGO Worker’s Brutal Killing In Mukono

By Our Reporter

A joint security operation has led to the arrest of five suspects in connection with the brutal murder of Mr. Wayengera Godfrey, an employee of Compassion International Uganda, who was slain along Katosi Road in Mukono District last month.

Mr. Wayengera was traveling from Mbale to Kampala on June 9, 2025, accompanied by a woman identified as Christine Najjabi, when they were ambushed by armed men dressed in military uniforms. His body was later discovered dumped in Namulira Village, Mukono, sparking a nationwide outcry and an intensive security probe.

In a statement released by Uganda Police spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma, authorities confirmed that significant progress had been made in the investigation. Five suspects have been arrested and critical evidence recovered, including a SAR rifle and multiple sets of military and police uniforms.

Arrested Suspects:

• Tumusiime Ashraf alias Obadiah (40) – resident of Kireka, arrested at Ku Sattu, Kayunga Road, Mukono
• Ssenteza Mike (40) – from Wakiso, apprehended in Busawuli Ward, Wakiso District
• Kasolo Fahad (30) – resident of Nabweru and Kireka, arrested along Kamuli Road, Kireka
• Sgt. Mwesige Muhammad alias Jet Lee/Munamakerere (50) – an army deserter from Kagugube, arrested in Wandegeya
• Cpl. Mugabe Borban Aspa – an active army officer and resident of Kagugube, also arrested in Wandegeya

Preliminary findings indicate the suspects are part of an organized criminal syndicate that targets traders and travelers along the Katosi Road corridor. Police believe the gang has been impersonating security personnel to stage ambushes and execute violent crimes undetected.

The recovery of weapons and official uniforms, police say, points to a wider pattern of criminality involving armed robbery and murder conducted under the guise of legitimate security operations.

“We want to assure the public that security agencies are working tirelessly to bring this matter to its logical conclusion. We shall continue to follow every lead to bring all perpetrators to justice,” said ACP Kituuma.

The murder of Mr. Wayengera has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s NGO and humanitarian communities, where he was widely admired for his work in community development. While Compassion International Uganda has not yet issued a public statement, sources indicate the organization is closely cooperating with investigators.

This incident underscores the rising threat of rogue criminal elements exploiting military imagery to terrorize civilians. Security agencies have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.