New developments have surfaced in the tragic case of Police Officer Muhangi Arthur, who was shot and killed by a colleague at the Naguru Police Barracks. What was initially seen as a minor altercation has now been confirmed to have stemmed from a financial dispute involving a Shs.2.6 million debt.
Arthur, a member of the 22nd intake and attached to the Counter-Terrorism (CT) Tourism Unit, had reportedly been pressing his roommate—a fellow officer—for repayment. The issue had already been brought to the attention of senior officers.
On May 27, 2025, the suspect was summoned and acknowledged owing the full amount. He was granted police bond after committing to repay the debt within two days.
On the day of the shooting, the suspect returned with Shs.2.3 million, intending to settle most of the debt and request more time to clear the remaining Shs.300,000. However, he was informed at the CT Intelligence offices that an extra Shs.500,000 had been added to cover related costs, raising the total to Shs.3.1 million.
Witnesses report that the suspect became visibly distressed. He walked out and made a phone call to a friend, during which he ominously stated it would be their last conversation. He said something terrible was imminent—either he would end up dead or in Luzira Prison—and warned it would happen within 10 minutes.
Moments later, the suspect allegedly returned to their shared residence in Block D, pulled out his firearm, and shot Arthur at close range. The gunfire sparked panic throughout the barracks as the suspect was seen fleeing the scene.
By the time emergency responders arrived, Arthur was already dead. His untimely death has left fellow officers and the Naguru community in shock. Colleagues remember him as a calm, disciplined, and dedicated officer whose loss is being deeply mourned.
The Uganda Police Force has not yet issued an official statement, but a comprehensive investigation is ongoing to locate the suspect and uncover the full details of what led to this deadly encounter.
This heartbreaking incident has reignited national conversations about financial stress, mental health, and dispute resolution within the police force. At its core, the tragedy underscores a painful reality—a promising life was lost, and a grieving family left behind, all over a debt that spiraled beyond control.
