Soroti City, Uganda: Police in Soroti City have launched investigations into a deadly aggravated robbery in which a 32-year-old mobile money operator was shot and killed in the early hours of Friday morning.
The incident occurred at around 4:40am near Goalman Supermarket along Station Road, according to preliminary police reports.
East Kyoga Regional Police Commander, Mr Ibrahim Saiga, identified the deceased as Patricia Kokunda.
Ambushed on Way to Market
Mr Saiga said Kokunda was attacked shortly after leaving home and boarding a taxi en route to Ocorimongin Cattle Market in Katakwi District.
“The mobile money operator was killed after being followed as she was boarding a taxi,” he said.
Police believe the assailants, who were riding on an unregistered motorcycle, trailed her before intercepting the vehicle.
The attackers reportedly forced her out of the taxi and robbed her of an unspecified amount of money.
During the violent robbery, Kokunda was shot and sustained critical injuries. She was rushed to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital but later succumbed to the gunshot wounds.
The killing has sent shockwaves through the business community, particularly among mobile money operators who are increasingly becoming targets of violent crime.
Suspects Arrested, Hunt Ongoing
Police say swift response and review of CCTV footage led to the arrest of two suspects who are currently in custody and assisting with investigations.
“We are intensifying efforts to track down additional suspects, recover the stolen money, and the firearm used in the attack,” Mr Saiga said.
He further condemned the attack as senseless violence and reassured the public of police commitment to ensuring safety and justice. Saiga urged individuals dealing in cash transactions to take extra precautions.
“We advise members of the public, especially those handling large sums of money, to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement,” he said.
The incident adds to growing concerns over targeted robberies involving mobile money operators, with security agencies under pressure to curb the trend.
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