Mbale Teenager Arrested Over Murder of Fellow Student After Weeks in Hiding
Police in Mbale have captured a Senior Three student from Mbale High School accused of killing his schoolmate, bringing to an end a manhunt that lasted nearly a month.
The suspect, identified only as Kairoki, had been on the run since 28 July 2025, when 19-year-old Shafik Wasike was fatally stabbed during a confrontation.
The Fatal Altercation
Investigations indicate that the two students quarreled while heading home from school. The dispute escalated into a fight near Amber Stores in the Indian Quarters, during which Kairoki allegedly pulled out a sharp object and stabbed Wasike.
The injured teenager was rushed by friends to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, but doctors pronounced him dead shortly after arrival.
How Police Caught the Suspect
According to Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, SP Rogers Taitika, the fugitive student had sought refuge in Busolwe Town Council, Butaleja District.
“We received intelligence from community members that led us to his hideout. He was arrested and transferred to Mbale City Police Station, where he is being held on charges of murder,” Taitika confirmed.
The suspect is expected to appear before court to face trial.
Community Mourning
Wasike, a resident of Bujoloto, Nkoma Ward, was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Kabwangasi Town Council. His burial drew crowds of grieving relatives, classmates, and community leaders, many of whom called for tougher interventions to curb violence among school-going youth.
The tragic incident has sparked wider debate in Mbale City about student discipline, peer violence, and the need for preventive counseling programs in schools.
