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Masindi Government Prison Incident: Remand Inmate Accused of Murdering Cellmate
In a tragic turn of events at Masindi Government Prison, a remand inmate lodged for murdering his mother has reportedly killed a fellow prisoner, according to a press statement issued on Monday, 4 August 2025, by Uganda Prisons Service spokesperson Senior Commissioner of Prisons Frank Baine.
Incident Overview
The attack occurred around 4:00 AM on Sunday, 3 August 2025, in the TB Isolation Ward where both men were incarcerated. The suspect, identified as Anatoli Irumba, had recently been remanded on charges of matricide. He is accused of assaulting and fatally injuring convicted inmate Moses Tuhame, who was serving a sentence for aggravated defilement. After the assault, Tuhame was rushed to Masindi Hospital but succumbed to his injuries a few hours later .
Next Steps and Official Response
Baine confirmed Police has assumed control of the case, with Tuhame’s body slated for a postmortem examination. The remains will be released to his relatives for burial upon completion of forensic protocols .
Broader Context
Masindi Prison is currently under intense pressure due to severe overcrowding. As of mid‑May 2025, the facility—designed for approximately 266 inmates—staffed over 1,800 inmates, with nearly 1,400 on remand. Many of these cases involve serious charges such as murder, aggravated robbery, rape, and defilement . The density of remand prisoners heightens tension and the risk of violence within the facility.
What’s at a Glance
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | 3 August 2025, around 4:00 AM |
| Location | Masindi Government Prison, TB Isolation Ward |
| Suspect | Anatoli Irumba — remanded for mẹndesa after killing his mother |
| Victim | Moses Tuhame — convicted of aggravated defilement |
| Cause of Death | Injuries from assault; later pronounced dead at Masindi Hospital |
| Authorities | Uganda Prisons Service & Police; postmortem pending |
| Systemic Issue | Severe overcrowding and high remand population raising safety concerns |
This incident underscores persistent safety risks in Uganda’s correctional facilities, especially in prisons operating far above capacity. Authorities continue to investigate, and further updates—including findings from the postmortem and police actions—are expected.
