Fresh details emerge in mysterious death of former Lira RCC Mwase
New details have emerged surrounding the mysterious death of former Lira assistant Resident City Commissioner (RCC), Karim Mwase, whose body was discovered late Sunday night in a trench along the Iganga–Tororo highway.
According to Busoga East police spokesperson Michael Kafayo, a postmortem conducted at Iganga General Hospital confirmed that Mwase died from blunt force trauma to the head, ruling out earlier speculation of poisoning.
The report revealed multiple facial bruises and internal bleeding, indicating that Mwase had been physically assaulted before being dumped in the trench, where his body was later discovered by a casual labourer.
“The pattern of injuries confirms he was struck with a heavy object, possibly during a struggle. We now consider this a case of homicide,” Kafayo told reporters on Monday afternoon.
Sniffer dogs deployed to the crime scene reportedly lost the trail approximately one kilometre from the site, suggesting the assailants may have used a getaway vehicle. Intelligence-led operations are now underway to track down the suspects. Investigators have since impounded a Toyota Sienta (registration number UBH 449L) that Mwase had borrowed from a colleague, Abdullah Kakaire.
The vehicle was recovered in Bukaboli village, Nakalama sub-county in Iganga district, parked with its hazard lights on and the ignition turned off. Police noted there were no signs of forced entry and are now combing through forensic evidence retrieved from the vehicle.
Mwase had borrowed the car to facilitate movements during an RDC-organized rally in Bugweri district. He was last seen alive having dinner with fellow RDCs and assistants at Sana Hotel in Iganga. They had gathered after attending the farewell ceremony of outgoing Iganga RDC, Sadala Wandera.
Wandera collapsed during his farewell speech and was rushed to hospital, causing a brief disruption. However, the dinner resumed shortly after. According to colleagues, Mwase appeared jovial and engaging throughout the evening. He left the hotel around 10:00 pm.
When Kakaire attempted to contact him later that night to retrieve the car, Mwase did not respond, prompting a search. While the car was later traced to Bukaboli, Mwase remained missing until his body was discovered hours later.
Police say no arrests have been made so far, but statements have been recorded from individuals who interacted with Mwase that day, including colleagues, hotel staff, and event organizers.
“We urge anyone with information to come forward. This was a brutal killing, and we are treating it with the urgency it deserves,” Kafayo added.
As investigations intensify, Mwase’s family and colleagues continue to mourn the tragic loss of a man widely described as dedicated, sociable, and passionate about public service. Funeral arrangements are currently underway.
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