Security Deployed in Busia Following Enforcement Officer's Murder

A heavy deployment of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and police has hit the streets of Busia town. The security reinforcement comes in the wake of the tragic murder of municipal law enforcement officer Tusker Ofubo, widely known as Master, who was stabbed multiple times along Tororo Road.

Ofubo was attacked by a hawker while on routine revenue mobilization duties. The assailant reportedly struck with a knife after the officer impounded mobile phone chargers being sold illegally on the street.

Following the incident, enforcement teams backed by soldiers and police launched sweeping trade order operations across the municipality, targeting areas like the Mawero roadside market, Nangwe shops, and Arubaine. George Wandera, the head of enforcement, explained that the military backup became necessary after discovering that individuals operating in non-gazetted spaces were carrying weapons.

During Monday’s operations, security forces arrested close to 20 people—mostly women operating small roadside businesses—and confiscated their merchandise. The suspects are currently being held at Busia Police Station and are expected to be arraigned in court on various charges.

The deployment has elicited mixed reactions from local residents and traders. While some locals complained that innocent bystanders and those servicing bank loans were wrongfully targeted, other traders welcomed the heavy security presence to ensure the safety of law enforcement personnel carrying out their duties.

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