By Robert Segawa
Kawempe Police have apprehended 28-year-old Ssemanda Tonny, a suspected habitual criminal, in connection with a robbery and sexual assault incident that occurred in the division on the night of August 17, 2024. Ssemanda was arrested on Sunday after being on the run following the attack.
The incident involved a group of approximately three men who broke into the home of a 34-year-old female victim, where she was assaulted, and her belongings were stolen, including cash worth UGX 200,000, two mobile phones, and a 32-inch television. The victim’s child, who was asleep in another room, inadvertently turned on the lights during the attack, allowing the victim to identify Ssemanda as one of the assailants; he was recognized as a neighbor. The other suspects remain unidentified.
Luke Owoyesigyire, deputy spokesperson for the Kampala Metropolitan Police, revealed that Ssemanda has a history of criminal behavior, having been previously imprisoned for a similar offense before his release in June 2024. Following his return to the area, police received tips that led to his capture.
A search of Ssemanda’s premises uncovered a breaking implement and a knife, which are now part of the evidence in the ongoing investigation.
“The Kampala Metropolitan Police is committed to ensuring justice for the victim and will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses,” Owoyesigyire stated.
He also urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement in the pursuit of justice for the victim and to apprehend all individuals involved in this heinous crime.
