Masindi DHO’s death not politically or tribally motivated, says RDC

Summary:

• The Resident District Commissioner of Masindi, Emmy Ngabirano, dismisses claims linking Dr. Jino Abiriga’s death to politics or tribal motives. Dr. Abiriga, a former acting District Health Officer, was found dead under suspicious circumstances. Investigations focus on potential criminal elements, with family members arrested for aiding inquiries.

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The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Masindi, Emmy Ngabirano, has refuted assertions connecting the untimely demise of Dr. Jino Abiriga, the former acting District Health Officer (DHO), to political or tribal motives. Ngabirano clarified that ongoing investigations are concentrating on potential criminal elements, hinting at a potential internal arrangement.

Dr. Abiriga, a gynecologist at Masindi Hospital, was discovered lifeless on January 7 in a neighbor’s compound in Kijura North, Central Division, Masindi Municipality, exhibiting injuries to his neck and abdomen. The circumstances surrounding his death have aroused suspicions, prompting an extensive inquiry by the police.

A team of investigators dedicated an entire day to reconstructing events at the crime scene, assisted by the deceased’s wife. They delved into a pit latrine where suspects might have disposed of materials related to the crime, recovering unconfirmed items during the process.

On Monday, four family members, comprising children, the wife, and the maid, were apprehended to aid the police investigation. The decision to detain them stemmed from the discovery of blood stains in the house. Julius Allan Hakiza, the Albertine region Police spokesperson, clarified that their arrest is intended to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the presence of blood stains in the house.

Ngabirano stressed that the detained suspects are actively cooperating with the investigation, asserting that the truth is not elusive. The RDC underscored the importance of understanding how Dr. Abiriga left the house, considering that his body was found a few meters away in the compound.

As part of the ongoing investigation, Dr. Abiriga’s remains have been transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for an independent post-mortem examination. The deceased had served as the acting DHO for approximately two years, accumulating around 30 years of service at Masindi Hospital. Additionally, he owned Wanainchi Clinic, a private clinic situated in Masindi town.

Various speakers, including residents, health workers, and politicians, advocated for justice and expeditious investigations during a vigil commemorating the tragic incident.