“We Must Eat”: Two Arrested Over Alleged Theft of UBOS Boss Chris Mukiza’s Bananas in Kisoro

KISORO, UGANDA: Two teenagers have been arrested by residents in Chahafi Town Council, Kisoro District, following allegations that they stole seven bunches of bananas from a garden belonging to Dr. Chris Ndatira Mukiza, an executive at the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).

The suspects have been identified as Paul Tumushime, 16, and Gilbert Gato, 17, both residents of Murambe Cell in Central Ward, Chahafi Town Council.

According to residents, the teenagers were allegedly caught after stealing the bananas from Gisha Cell, a neighbouring village.

The suspects were reportedly arrested in Rubangye Cell by boda boda riders who recognised them while they were transporting the bananas towards Kisoro town.

Residents claim that the two teenagers are known in the area for alleged theft and have previously been linked to other incidents.

Some residents also alleged that one of the suspects, identified as Paul, was previously arrested in Rwanda in connection with the alleged theft and sale of a goat. These claims could not independently be verified by press time.

Residents have called on security authorities to take appropriate legal action against people involved in theft and address what they describe as growing insecurity in the area.

The residents also claimed that the two teenagers are Senior Two students at Kabami Secondary School, although the school’s administration had not confirmed the claim by press time. The suspects were not wearing school uniforms when they were arrested.

Peninah Mukamazera and Judith, who also identified themselves as owners of some of the stolen banana bunches, called on authorities to take action against those involved in the alleged theft.

CUE IN RESIDENTS ON THEFT

Meanwhile, Hardad Nkunzimana, the Mayor of Chahafi Town Council, said theft of crops and livestock is contributing to insecurity in the area.

Nkunzimana said residents have reported cases involving the theft of goats and crops from gardens.

He also raised concern over what he described as increasing involvement of some young people in the use of narcotic substances, particularly marijuana, saying the issue requires attention from authorities and the community.

CUE IN NKUNZIMANA ON MARIJUANA

The two teenagers remain suspects, and any charges against them should follow due legal process.