
SFC Soldier to Face Court Martial for Mayuge Family Murder.
Uganda, a UPDF soldier attached to the Special Forces Command (SFC) is facing serious charges after allegedly shooting dead four family members and injuring others. The soldier, identified as Private Herbertson Birivumbika, is set to be arraigned before the Division Court Martial of the SFC, according to Major Jimmy Omara, the SFC spokesperson.
The harrowing incident occurred on a Saturday when Pte Birivumbika reportedly walked into the home of Isaac Isabirye Mudhasi, who was found eviscerating chicken for a visitor, and opened fire on the family members. The victims included Mudhasi, aged 42, and his children, Elesi Kafuko, 15, Resty Kantono, 13, and Nicholus Mudhasi, 6, who were all killed on the spot. Mudhasi’s wife and four other family members sustained serious injuries in the attack.
Maj Omara conveyed that investigators have made significant progress in the case and that once in-depth investigations are concluded, Pte Birivumbika will be formally charged before the SFC court. “Once an independent investigation has been conducted, the suspect is to appear before the Division Court Martial of the Special Forces Command,” he stated.
The crime, which has left the community in shock and mourning, is believed to be linked to a long-standing land dispute. The SFC, in a statement released on Monday, confirmed that Pte Birivumbika had escaped from his duty station and traveled to Namatale Village, Kabayingire Parish, Buwaya Sub-county in Mayuge, where the tragic shooting took place. Following the incident, Birivumbika was arrested upon his return, as all evidence pointed to his involvement. He is currently detained, awaiting trial.
Major Omara emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation and the swift administration of justice. He expressed deep condolences to the affected families and urged the residents of Namale to cooperate with the investigation process. “This is a very sad and regrettable incident; we would like to condole with the affected families. As a Command, we would also like to ask the people of Namale to cooperate with the investigators so that the suspect is quickly brought forward to face the law,” he said.
Maj Omara reassured the public of the SFC’s commitment to maintaining a strong and positive relationship with the citizens while ensuring that justice prevails. “As UPDF (SFC), we would like to assure the population that our strategic relationship with the wanainchi (citizens) will be highly maintained as we weed out errant members of the force,” he added.
The community and the nation at large now await the conclusion of the investigation and the subsequent court martial, hoping for justice for the victims and their families. The incident highlights the severe consequences of unresolved disputes and the critical importance of discipline and accountability within the armed forces.