SFC’s Richard Muhumuza died on duty guarding pastor

Summary:

• Ten years after joining the Ugandan army, Corporal Richard Muhumuza, assigned as a close protection officer, tragically lost his life while guarding Pastor Aloysius Bugingo amid increasing threats against high-profile individuals, sparking ongoing investigations into the incident.

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A decade ago, the late Richard Muhumuza enlisted in the Ugandan army, unaware that his journey would lead him to become a close protection officer. Serving as a Corporal in the Special Forces Command (SFC), a specialized military unit responsible for safeguarding the President, first family, and other VIPs, he unexpectedly found himself assigned to protect Pastor Aloysius Bugingo, the leader of the House of Prayer Ministries International in Kampala, just 10 months ago.

The deceased, reportedly in his late 30s and originating from Sembabule District, found himself in the sensitive role of guarding a high-profile religious figure due to the increased threats identified by security forces against various prominent individuals. This decision, explained by Maj Jimmy Omara, the Command’s spokesperson, was based on threat analysis, and Pastor Bugingo sought protection due to his close ties with the President and active support for the government.

In the wake of Muhumuza’s tragic death, Maj Omara expressed condolences, revealing that intelligence reports prompted preemptive actions against potential threats. The sudden attack on Tuesday night left the armed Corporal with no opportunity to defend himself. Maj Omara disclosed ongoing investigations into the incident, emphasizing that the deployment of security personnel is a meticulous process involving high-ranking officials.

Despite the known dangers, Pastor Bugingo seemed aware of the risks to his life, as evidenced in a video circulating on social media where he spoke about attempts to end his life the previous year. The assailants struck at Bwalakata Junction on National Housing Road in Namungoona, Rubaga Division of Kampala, causing injuries to Pastor Bugingo and ultimately claiming the life of Corporal Muhumuza Richard.

As investigations proceed, details about Corporal Muhumuza’s personal background, family, educational history, marital status, and previous deployments remain elusive. Both Maj Omara and officials from the army’s Directorate of Records engaged with Examiner on the matter, but comprehensive information was not immediately available at press time.