Gulu City, Uganda: Police in Gulu City have confirmed the death of two suspects arrested over the recent violent attacks on businesses along Cemetery Road, saying a postmortem examination points to blood clots linked to alleged self-inflicted injuries sustained while in detention.
The deceased have been identified as Okello Denish and Ojok Ojara Ben.
According to Aswa West Police spokesperson David Ongom Mudong, the duo was among several suspects apprehended during a security operation mounted after a scuffle escalated into targeted attacks on shops along Cemetery Road.
“They were part of the group of suspects arrested following the violent incidents that affected businesses along Cemetery Road,” Mudong said.
Mudong confirmed that the two suspects died on Friday while being held at Gulu Central Police Station. “They passed on while in custody. A postmortem examination was conducted and the findings indicate that the cause of death was blood clots resulting from injuries believed to have been self-inflicted,” he said.
He added that preliminary medical findings do not indicate external assault as the direct cause of death. “The examination points to internal complications arising from injuries they allegedly inflicted on themselves while in detention. Investigations are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances,” Mudong noted.
Police did not immediately clarify how or when the alleged injuries occurred, nor what monitoring measures were in place at the time.
One of the bodies has since been handed over to relatives for burial, while the second remains at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital pending completion of procedures.
The duo’s arrest followed unrest along Cemetery Road that left business owners counting losses after property was vandalised during a scuffle that spiralled into attacks.
“We mounted an operation to restore calm and ensure the safety of businesses in the area. Our priority was to prevent further destruction and bring those responsible to book,” Mudong said.
He assured residents that security patrols have been intensified to maintain stability in Gulu City.
The deaths have triggered concern among some residents who are demanding transparency regarding custodial conditions and oversight.
While police maintain that investigations are ongoing, Mudong urged the public to remain calm. “This incident is under active investigation. We are handling it with seriousness and will provide updates once inquiries are complete,” he said.
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