John Peter Mulwana
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I A Kampala court has remanded city businessman John Peter Mulwana to Luzira Government Prison over the fatal shooting of a man in Bunga, Makindye Division, in a case that has reignited concerns over gun violence and misuse of firearms in urban residential areas.
Mulwana appeared before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Makindye on Thursday and was charged with murder and attempted murder following the April 26 shooting incident that left one person dead and another injured.
The businessman was remanded until June 11, 2026, after court officials informed him that the charges against him are capital in nature and therefore can only be heard by the High Court.
The prosecution alleges that Mulwana shot dead Kevin Atwizukire, who was reportedly the boyfriend of his house help, Joan Nerima.
Investigators say the incident happened at around 9pm in Bunga-Kalungu, Makindye Division, after Atwizukire visited Nerima at her quarters within Mulwana’s residence.
According to police findings, the residence’s gateman, identified as Geld Tumwekwase, reportedly informed Mulwana that an unfamiliar man had entered the maid’s house while the businessman was away.
Police allege that Mulwana immediately returned home armed with a pistol and proceeded directly to the servant’s quarters.
Investigators say that when he knocked on the door, Nerima opened and pleaded for mercy, but Mulwana allegedly shot her in the shoulder.
Police further claim that Atwizukire attempted to flee during the commotion but was shot in the back near the gate as he tried to escape from the compound.
The importance of remanding the suspect, legal analysts say, lies in the gravity of the accusations and the need to preserve public confidence in the criminal justice system, especially in cases involving firearms and loss of life.
Court officials noted that murder and attempted murder are among the most serious offences under Uganda’s Penal Code, and the remand ensures that investigations continue without interference.
Security experts have also argued that the decision to remand Mulwana sends a strong message against mob-style justice and unlawful use of firearms in resolving personal disputes.
The shooting has shocked residents in Makindye and other parts of Kampala because it allegedly stemmed from a domestic misunderstanding that escalated into deadly violence.
Police recovered two spent cartridges from the crime scene and later impounded a pistol believed to have been used in the shooting.
Nerima was rushed to hospital by police officers for treatment, while Atwizukire’s body was taken to Mulago City Mortuary for post-mortem examination.
The remand is also considered significant because it allows prosecutors more time to gather forensic evidence, interview witnesses and complete investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Under Ugandan law, magistrate courts cannot try capital offences such as murder, but they are empowered to remand suspects as investigations proceed and committal papers are prepared for transfer to the High Court.
During the court session, the chief magistrate informed Mulwana that he retains the right to apply for bail before the High Court.
Legal experts say the case highlights the dangers associated with illegal or reckless firearm use in residential communities, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas where disputes can quickly escalate.
The incident has also renewed debate about responsible gun ownership and mental restraint during emotionally charged situations.
Police say investigations into the shooting are ongoing and additional witness statements are still being recorded.
If convicted, Mulwana could face severe penalties under Uganda’s criminal laws, including life imprisonment or other punishments prescribed for murder-related offences.
As the case proceeds, attention is expected to focus on the evidence gathered from the scene, ballistic examinations and testimony from witnesses present during the incident.
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