Gunshots reverberated through the Jinja court precincts on February 15, as warders from Kirinya prisons chased down two inmates attempting to flee while being returned to their holding cell. The inmates, identified as Mr. Ashraf Ssenoga, also known as “Vampire,” and Abel Muwanika, alias “Abusale,” had appeared before Grade One magistrate, Ms. Anxious Atumanya, for the fourth time since their arrest in December on charges of aggravated robbery.
Despite their plea for bail, which was denied by Ms. Atumanya due to the capital nature of their case, the inmates made a daring escape attempt as they were being escorted back to their cell. Handcuffed to each other, they bolted for the court gate amid the chaos of gunfire, momentarily halting other court proceedings.
The commotion prompted a response from High Court Judge, Justice Faridah Bukirwa, who adjourned an ongoing murder trial, while warders summoned their colleagues from neighboring courts to assist in the pursuit.
Eyewitnesses recounted the dramatic scene as the inmates, still handcuffed, managed to breach the court gate. However, their flight was short-lived as an officer fired three shots in an attempt to halt their escape. Despite being injured, Muwanika was recaptured, while Ssenoga’s wife expressed concern about his fate, fearing additional charges.
Prisons spokesperson, Mr. Frank Baine, confirmed that the escape attempt would result in additional charges for the duo, emphasizing the vigilance of the prison’s security system. He detailed the events leading to Muwanika’s injury, noting the measures taken by the officer to prevent their escape.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining security within judicial premises and underscores the risks involved in attempting to flee custody.
