Police in eastern Uganda have arrested 11 suspects in connection with the fatal shooting of a businesswoman during an early morning robbery in Soroti City, marking a major breakthrough in a case that has drawn widespread concern over rising urban crime.
According to the Uganda Police Force, the suspects are linked to the killing of 36-year-old Kokunda Patricia, a mobile money operator who was attacked on April 3, 2026, at around 4:40 a.m. near Goalman Supermarket along Station Road.
Police said the assailants shot the victim before fleeing with her handbag containing cash and valuables.
The incident triggered swift investigations led by the East Kyoga Regional Police, resulting in coordinated intelligence-led operations across Soroti City and neighboring districts of Amuria, Kalaki, and Abim.
Authorities confirmed that the number of suspects in custody has risen from an initial four to eleven. Among those arrested is Epeu Simon, also known as Iboda, who is suspected to have dragged the victim out of her vehicle.
Investigators identified Emenyu David, alias Ogwang Sam or Olipong, as the alleged gunman, while Okello Emmanuel, alias Imorning, is believed to have played a central role in planning the attack.
Police further named Eyamu Rashid, alias Odekuro, as the suspected initiator of the robbery scheme. Elacu Alfred and his wife Akello Hellen are accused of supplying ammunition used in the crime.
Other suspects include Okello Alex, Ojele Jorem (alias Jogo), Elwanu Julius, Onebo Felix, and Akello Salume, who is reportedly the wife of the suspected shooter.
During the ongoing investigations, police recovered critical evidence, including a rifle believed to have been used in the हत्या, ammunition, clothing worn during the operation, and a red motorcycle without registration plates. Officers also recovered a Tecno Canon mobile phone belonging to the deceased.
Authorities said UGX 10.5 million has so far been recovered from the suspects, out of an estimated UGX 28 million stolen during the robbery.
Police emphasized that investigations are still ongoing to identify additional suspects and dismantle what appears to be a coordinated criminal network behind the attack.
Members of the public have been urged to remain alert and report any information that could aid the investigation to the nearest police station.