SOROTI CITY — Police in Eastern Uganda have arrested 11 suspects in connection with the fatal shooting and robbery of a mobile money agent in Soroti City, in a case that has sparked public concern over rising attacks on cash handlers.
The victim, identified as Kokunda Patricia, a 36-year-old businesswoman, was shot dead in the early hours of April 3, 2026, near Goalman Supermarket along Station Road. According to the Uganda Police Force, the assailants fled the scene with a handbag containing approximately Shs28 million and other valuables.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said the attack occurred at around 4:40 a.m., describing it as an aggravated robbery that turned fatal.
“Police in East Kyoga Region have made significant progress in investigating an aggravated robbery and murder by shooting that claimed the life of Kokunda Patricia,” Rusoke said.
Swift arrests across districts
Authorities say a rapid, intelligence-led operation led to the arrest of the suspects across multiple districts, including Soroti, Amuria, Kalaki, and Abim.
Among those arrested is Emenyu David, also known as Ogwang Sam or Olipong, who is believed to be the shooter. Others include Okello Emmanuel, described as one of the key planners, and Eyamu Rashid, who is alleged to have initiated the robbery plot.
Police also identified Elacu Alfred and his wife Akello Hellen as suspected suppliers of ammunition used in the attack.
Additional suspects in custody include Epeu Simon, Okello Alex, Ojele Jorem, Elwanu Julius, Onebo Felix, and Akello Salume, who is reportedly the wife of the alleged shooter.
Key evidence recovered
Investigators have since recovered critical exhibits linked to the crime, including a rifle believed to have been used in the shooting, ammunition, clothing worn during the robbery, and a red motorcycle suspected to have been used as a getaway vehicle.
Police also retrieved the victim’s mobile phone and Shs10.5 million in cash — part of the money believed to have been stolen during the attack.
“Investigations continue to trace the remaining suspects and establish the full network involved in this organized armed robbery,” Rusoke said.
Community concern
The killing has drawn widespread concern in Soroti and surrounding areas, with residents calling for stronger measures to protect business operators, particularly those handling cash transactions such as mobile money agents.
While police have been praised for the swift arrests, community members say more needs to be done to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as investigations continue into the broader criminal network behind the attack.
