Security Unravels Plot Behind Soroti Businesswoman's Murder

Authorities in Uganda have made significant breakthroughs in the murder case of Patricia Kokunda, a 36-year-old businesswoman and mobile money operator in Soroti City. The incident occurred on April 3 as she traveled to Ocorimongin cattle market in a commuter taxi.

Assailants dragged her from the vehicle near Goalman Supermarket on Station Road around 4:40am, shot her multiple times, and fled with her belongings. She was rushed to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

A joint security team launched intelligence-led operations, arresting 11 suspects—nine men and two women—from hideouts in Abim, Kalaki, Soroti, and Amuria districts. Recovered items include the murder weapon sourced from South Sudan, ammunition, stolen cash, the victim’s phone, clothes, and the getaway motorcycle.

Police identified Emmanuel Okello as the chief planner, Rashid Eyamu as mediator, Simon Epeu who pulled Kokunda from the taxi, and David Emenyu as the shooter. Other accomplices include Alfred Elacu, who supplied the gun, his wife Hellen Akello, Alex Okello, Jorem Ojelle, Julius Elwanu, Felix Onebo, and Salume Akello, the shooter’s wife.

Suspects confessed to plotting the attack from Moruapesur Ward in Soroti since January. They trailed Kokunda from YY Bus park to Pioneer Primary School and the boda-boda stage before striking. Robbery proceeds, estimated at Shs28 million, were divided near a swamp by Barlows Nursery and Primary School in Madera ward; Shs10.5 million has been recovered.

East Kyoga Regional Police Commander Ibrahim Saiga confirmed the suspects are in custody facing aggravated robbery charges. Investigations continue to dismantle the full criminal network.

The case has heightened public anxiety, but security urges vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)