The late Patricia Kokunda
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Police in Soroti City have arrested four suspects in connection with the aggravated robbery and fatal shooting of mobile money operator Patricia Kokunda, in a case that has shocked traders and residents across the Teso sub-region.
The 32-year-old mobile money operator was attacked in the early hours of April 3, 2026, at about 4:40am near Goalman Supermarket along Station Road, shortly after boarding a commuter taxi.
According to police, armed assailants intercepted the vehicle, dragged her out, robbed her of cash, and shot her before fleeing the scene. She was later pronounced dead after being rushed to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital.
Security agencies immediately launched a joint manhunt that led to the arrest of Alex Okello and Felix Onego on the same day of the killing. A third suspect, Simon Epeu alias Iboda, was later tracked down in Anyara, Kalaki District, where police recovered Shs 7 million believed to be part of the stolen money that was stolen on the fateful night.
Police say the breakthrough continued on April 4, when officers arrested the suspected shooter, Alfred Elacu, in Orungo, Amuria District. During the follow-up operation, detectives also recovered Kokunda’s smartphone, which had been dumped in a bush in Kichinjani in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence.
Speaking on the progress of the case, East Kyoga Regional Police Commander Ibrahim Saiga said the security teams remain focused on recovering more exhibits, including the firearm believed to have been used in the attack.
The killing has reignited concerns over the safety of mobile money operators and business people who routinely move with cash in the early morning hours. Police have since urged traders to strengthen personal security arrangements and work closely with law enforcement whenever transporting large sums of money.
Investigators say the four suspects are expected to face charges related to aggravated robbery and murder, while more arrests could follow as the probe widens.
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