Police have arrested two prime suspects linked to a series of violent robberies that have plagued Kisoro District in recent months.
During a press briefing held at Police Headquarters in Naguru on Monday, June 30, Police Spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma confirmed the arrests of Irankunda Gerald, also known as Ndereya, and Habyarimana Vallence. The suspects were apprehended in a coordinated operation carried out in Karumena and Kisoro Hill villages.
“On June 27, 2025, our officers successfully arrested the two prime suspects—Irankunda Gerald alias Ndereya and Habyarimana Vallence—during simultaneous raids in Karumena and Kisoro Hill villages,” ACP Rusoke revealed.
Following his arrest, Irankunda led investigators to a location in Kisoro Hill where he had hidden an AK-47 rifle, a magazine with one live round of ammunition, a pair of police khaki trousers, and suspected police jungle boots. All items were recovered by the police.
During interrogation, Irankunda reportedly confessed to taking part in at least four armed robbery cases in the district. These include attacks in Mugombero Town Centre, Natate, and Mutorole, which are recorded under Kisoro CRBs 303/2025, 304/2025, 381/2025, and 402/2025.
Investigations further uncovered that Irankunda had previously escaped from custody at Ruti Police Station in Mbarara District while being questioned by the Flying Squad Unit, following an earlier arrest in Kisoro.
“He admitted to carrying out the robberies with Habyarimana Vallence, a Rwandese national, and Anthony Imanirakiza, who had already been captured by members of the public and handed over to Kisoro Police,” ACP Rusoke disclosed.
Police say other accomplices remain on the run, and efforts are ongoing to track them down.
“We urge the public to stay alert and cooperate with law enforcement by sharing any helpful information that may lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects,” ACP Rusoke concluded.
