An inmate who was shot while attempting to escape from the Jinja Court cells has tragically passed away from his injuries at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, according to Uganda Prisons officials.
The deceased has been identified as 27-year-old Abel Muwanika, also known as Abusale. The incident occurred during a disturbance last Thursday when Muwanika and another inmate, Ashraf Ssenoga, attempted to flee while being escorted to the suspects’ court holding cells after being denied bail by Jinja Grade One Magistrate Anxious Atumanya.
Despite warnings from prison wardens, Muwanika and Ssenoga continued their escape attempt, prompting officers to open fire. Muwanika sustained a gunshot wound to the mouth while trying to take cover, while Ssenoga suffered minor injuries to his leg. Muwanika was subsequently rushed to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Uganda Prisons spokesperson Frank Baine emphasized that Ssenoga, the surviving escapee, will face charges for attempted escape after completing his medical treatment at Kirinya Prison’s sickbay.
This incident underscores the dangers of attempting to escape from lawful custody, and prison authorities have issued a warning against such misconduct by inmates.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident, as several cases of inmate escapes or attempted escapes have been recorded across Uganda in recent years.
