KAMPALA, Uganda — Police have arrested another suspect in connection with the murder of Ugandan rugby player Sydney Gongodyo as investigations into the June 5 killing continue.
The suspect, identified as Henry Kabugo, 21, a boda boda rider and resident of Old Kira–Kisenyi, was arrested in Wandegeya during a joint operation conducted by police and boda boda leaders from Nakawa Division.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala, detectives tracked down the suspect following a review of video footage captured at the scene of the attack.
Kawala said investigators identified Kabugo from the footage, which allegedly shows a man wearing a blue reflector jacket and a black hood in an apparent attempt to conceal his identity during the incident.
“The arrest was made following extensive analysis of video evidence and intelligence-led operations that helped investigators trace the suspect’s movements after the attack,” Kawala said.
Police believe Kabugo was among a group of individuals present during the incident in which Gongodyo sustained fatal injuries. However, authorities emphasized that investigations are still ongoing and that the specific role played by each suspect has yet to be conclusively established.
Security officials said the suspect was arrested without incident after detectives located him in Wandegeya following days of surveillance and intelligence gathering.
The latest arrest brings investigators closer to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the death of the rugby player, whose killing has shocked Uganda’s sporting fraternity and generated widespread public concern.
Police have indicated that additional suspects remain at large and are being actively pursued. Detectives are continuing to examine video recordings, gather forensic evidence and interview witnesses as they work to reconstruct the events leading up to Gongodyo’s death.
The murder has prompted calls from sports stakeholders and members of the public for swift justice, with many urging authorities to strengthen security measures for athletes and other citizens amid growing concerns about violent crime in urban areas.
Police say investigations remain ongoing and that further arrests could be made as more evidence emerges. Authorities have pledged to provide updates as the case progresses.