Police in Kiruhura District have launched a manhunt for a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer accused of killing his friend during a dispute over a card game.
The victim has been identified as 36-year-old Eric Agaba, a resident of Nshwere Empango in Rushere Town Council. The incident reportedly occurred while Agaba and the suspect were working on a farm that belonged to the late Aidah Aikiriza.
Local council chairperson of Shwere village, David Kooya, identified the suspect as James Kakooza, a UPDF officer who also served as the farm manager. According to Kooya, the two men had been gambling while playing cards, with Kakooza allegedly losing bets amounting to Shs 80,000.
Kooya said that after realising the extent of his losses, Kakooza allegedly shot Agaba in an attempt to recover the money. Agaba died at the scene.
Following the incident, the suspect fled and is currently on the run. Police say efforts are underway to track him down and bring him to justice.
The LC1 chairperson further revealed that Kakooza was known to local authorities and had previously been warned over alleged drug use. He was also suspected of involvement in several criminal cases, including robbery and murder, in the area.
Police have urged the public to remain calm and report any information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest.
