MURDER: 87 suspects arrested with aid from sniffer dogs

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | At least 87 murder suspects have been apprehended by the police using sniffer dogs in the last three months. Of these, 44 have been formally charged in court after tangible evidence was collected with the assistance of the canine unit.

Most of the suspects were involved in aggravated robberies, where sniffer dogs traced their movements, leading to their arrests along with the recovery of weapons or other incriminating evidence. One notable case involved the murder of Tony Migade, a boda-boda rider from Israel Matovu Zone, Makindye II Parish, Makindye Division in Kampala.

Migade was attacked and killed a week ago while returning home at night with his wife, Jane Namubiru. The couple had parked their motorcycle at a private parking area and were walking home when they were ambushed by eight assailants who fatally stabbed Migade.

In addition to the murder cases, police sniffer dogs have been instrumental in arresting 398 suspects involved in burglaries and 570 suspects connected to thefts. Police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke, praised the canine unit’s role in these arrests, describing it as a “vote of confidence” in the effectiveness of police canine services.

Rusoke urged the public to make regular use of police dog services, emphasizing their reliability in aiding investigations. Police records indicate that canines have helped recover 1,566 exhibits in various cases, which has been crucial for prosecution in courts.

Between July 1 and September 30, 2024, police canine units have been involved in the arrest of 3,489 suspects. Following thorough investigations, 1,291 of these individuals have been charged in court, while others have been released.

ACP Rusoke emphasized the importance of public cooperation during investigations, noting that not everyone arrested is found guilty. He highlighted that many police investigations are hindered when witnesses are hesitant to provide statements, which could be vital for successful prosecutions.

Police continue to encourage the public to utilize canine services whenever their property is vandalized or stolen, particularly as house and shop break-ins tend to increase during the final quarter of the year.

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