Jinja: Residents of Wanyama Village in Mutekanga Zone, Northern Division, Jinja City, are in shock after unknown gunmen shot and killed Opusi Emma, an Airtel money distribution agent working under VG Keweshala Limited.
The incident occurred on Monday, February 3, 2024, at around 4 p.m. while Opusi Emma was traveling on a motorcycle with registration number UFG 397Q.
The gunmen, who were reportedly in a dark blue Toyota Premio with an unidentified number plate, shot Opusi Emma and fled with an unspecified amount of money.
Locals rushed to Opusi Emma’s aid and took him to Alshafa Private Hospital in Northern Division. He was later transferred to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Police from Bugembe and Jinja Central Police Station arrived at the crime scene to investigate. Richard Kaswabuli, the Buwekula Parish Internal Security Officer, who was at the scene, provided valuable insights into the incident.
“They sped off toward the Namulesa side after the shooting. It was unfortunate that they killed the man in broad daylight,” Kaswabuli said.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Cosam Muwangala, an eyewitness to the tragic event, recounted the events leading up to the shooting. “He (Opusi Emma) came and parked at my home. He was chatting with my wife because he had been providing her with mobile money floats for her business,” Muwangala explained.
Muwangala’s account took a chilling turn as he described the sudden and brutal attack. “Thieves came out of nowhere in a vehicle and opened fire on him, hitting him in the chest.”
It is reported that Opusi Emma regularly distributed mobile money floats to agents in Bugembe and other suburbs of Jinja City. Tragically, he met his demise while carrying out his daily duties.
Meanwhile, Kiira Regional Police Command has intensified efforts to apprehend the suspects responsible for the fatal shooting, according to SP James Mubi, the regional police spokesperson.
Mubi revealed that the assailants made off with over UGX 22 million and Opusi Emma’s mobile phones from the Airtel service center where he was attacked. The police are currently tracking the phones.
“The police responded swiftly to the scene, recovering Opusi’s motorcycle (UFG 397Q), a cartridge, and other exhibits. The scene has been revisited to pursue new leads,” Mubi said in a statement on Tuesday.
As part of their investigation, the police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the suspects’ vehicle, a Toyota Premio.
The police have also urged members of the public dealing with large sums of cash or valuable items to seek professional escort services from the police or private security companies to minimize risks.
