Police at Masindi Central Police Station have reported the death of a suspect, identified as Patrick Mujuni, 37, who was being held in their cells following his arrest four days ago on allegations of assault and robbery.
Julius Allan Hakiza, the Albertine region police spokesperson, confirmed the incident and stated that the suspect is believed to have committed suicide.
“I’m aware a suspect died in the cell, and we suspect he committed suicide. We shall provide more details,” Hakiza said.
Mujuni, a resident of Kijunjubwa Cell in Kijunjubwa Town Council, Masindi District, was arrested last Sunday by the officer in charge of Kijunjubwa Police Post, Peter Lokinomoi. His body has since been taken to Masindi General Hospital for a postmortem examination.
Paul Tinkamanyire, the brother of the deceased, revealed that he was informed on Thursday morning by the officer in charge of the Criminal Investigations Department, Simon Peter Ochiti, that his brother had died in custody.
According to Tinkamanyire, Mujuni, who ran a small bar and butchery, was involved in a misunderstanding with a customer over money, which led to a physical altercation and his subsequent arrest.
Paddy Muhumuza, a friend of the deceased, said he had attempted to secure a police bond for Mujuni on Wednesday, but his efforts were unsuccessful.
According to the Judicial Service Commission, any person arrested may be released on police bond while investigations are ongoing, as long as the suspect or a relative provides contact and address details to ensure the suspect reports to the police when required. A police bond does not require the payment of any money.
The handling of persons arrested by police is governed by Section 25(1) of the Police Act, CAP 303 (Act 16/2006).
Authorities have launched investigations to determine the exact circumstances surrounding Mujuni’s death.
