By Aggrey Buluba
On the afternoon of August 24, 2024, a dramatic robbery unfolded in the normally quiet town of Kalisizo, Kyotera district, where a gang of armed robbers made off with 150 million shillings from Pulinali Semanda, a well-known businessman and owner of Zavuga Coffee Investments.
Semanda, 53, had withdrawn the large sum of money from Centenary Bank in Kyotera to pay his workers and coffee suppliers. But as he returned to his home in Kalisizo, he was ambushed in a meticulously planned attack that left the community in shock.
The robbers struck with precision. As Semanda pulled into his driveway, Mwanje Gerald, also known as “Kigere Muzeyi,” emerged from the shadows. Mwanje quickly grabbed the bag containing the cash from Semanda’s car, all while his accomplice, Joseph Kagimu aka “Bruno”, stood by with an AK-47 rifle, holding the businessman at gunpoint to prevent any resistance.
The third member of the gang, Alex Lule aka “Dodo”, was on standby, ready to whisk the robbers away from the scene in their getaway vehicle. The gang’s strategy was coordinated down to the last detail, creating a near-perfect operation.
However, in a twist that seems more fitting for a crime drama than a police report, the gang also enlisted the help of a witch doctor, Alex Nabbimba. According to the police, Nabbimba’s role was to provide surveillance and alert the robbers to any nearby police activity. How exactly he conducted this surveillance through traditional means or mystical ones remains unclear, but his involvement adds a unique dimension to an already remarkable crime.
After an extensive investigation, the police finally caught a break. On September 6, 2024, they apprehended Mwanje Gerald in Kalisizo town. Mwanje confessed to his role in the robbery and was identified on CCTV footage as the one who took the bag from Semanda’s car. With his confession, the police were able to piece together the full story, identifying all members of the gang, including their witch doctor accomplice.
While theese ones are now in custody, police are continuing their efforts to capture the remaining suspects. The community is relieved but remains on high alert as law enforcement works to bring all those involved to justice.
This robbery has left the residents of Kalisizo not only shocked but also intrigued by the bizarre mix of modern crime tactics and ancient beliefs. As investigations continue, the story of the 150 million shillings heist, complete with its witch doctor twist will likely be the talk of the town for some time.
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