New revelations have come to light in the mysterious death of former Lira Assistant Resident City Commissioner (RCC), Karim Mwase, whose body was found late Sunday night in a trench along the Iganga–Tororo highway.
Busoga East police spokesperson Michael Kafayo confirmed on Monday that a postmortem conducted at Iganga General Hospital showed Mwase died from blunt force trauma to the head, dismissing earlier claims of possible poisoning.
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The medical report detailed severe bruising on his face and internal bleeding, indicating he was violently assaulted before being dumped in the trench. His body was discovered by a casual labourer.
“The nature of the injuries suggests he was hit with a heavy object, possibly during a struggle. We are now treating the incident as a homicide,” said Kafayo.
Sniffer dogs brought to the crime scene reportedly lost the trail about a kilometre away, leading investigators to suspect the killers may have fled using a vehicle. Police have since launched intelligence-led efforts to identify and capture the suspects.
Authorities also impounded a Toyota Sienta (registration UBH 449L) that Mwase had borrowed from a friend, Abdullah Kakaire. The car was found parked in Bukaboli village, Nakalama sub-county, Iganga district, with its hazard lights on and the ignition off. There were no signs of forced entry, and forensic analysis is ongoing.
Mwase had borrowed the vehicle for an RDC rally in Bugweri district. He was last seen at Sana Hotel in Iganga, dining with other RDCs and assistants after attending the farewell event of outgoing Iganga RDC, Sadala Wandera. Wandera collapsed mid-speech and was rushed to hospital, but the dinner later resumed. Witnesses say Mwase was in high spirits throughout the evening and left the venue around 10:00 p.m.
When Kakaire later tried to reach him to retrieve the vehicle, Mwase was unreachable. A search began, and while the car was located, Mwase was missing until his body was found several hours later.
Police have not yet made any arrests but have taken statements from Mwase’s colleagues, hotel staff, and event organizers.
“We appeal to the public for any information that could help us in this investigation. This was a vicious murder, and we’re pursuing the case with utmost seriousness,” Kafayo said.
As investigations progress, Mwase’s family and colleagues are mourning the loss of a man remembered for his dedication, warmth, and commitment to public service. Funeral plans are currently being arranged.
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