University of St Joseph Mbarara Student Killed in Suspected Robbery Attack

MBARARA, Uganda — Police in Mbarara City are investigating the killing of a first-year student of University of St Joseph Mbarara who was allegedly attacked by unknown assailants while returning to his hostel.

The deceased has been identified as John Patrick Abenawe, 24, a Bachelor of Education student at the Catholic-founded university.

According to preliminary police reports, Abenawe was attacked on Sunday night after watching an English Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal F.C..

Police say the student was reportedly heading back to his hostel in Bireere, Isingiro, when unidentified attackers struck him on the head with a blunt object before fleeing the scene.

Rwizi Regional Police spokesperson Samson Kasasira said good Samaritans found the victim lying unconscious and rushed him to Divine Mercy Hospital in Mbarara City for emergency treatment.

“He was returning from watching the Arsenal match and heading back to his hostel in Bireere, Isingiro, when the assailants attacked him,” Kasasira said.

Police said the body was later handed over to the family for burial at the deceased’s ancestral home in Bitsya, Buhweju District. Burial is expected to take place today, Tuesday, 12th May 2026.

Despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life, Abenawe later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Police have since launched investigations to establish the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible for the killing.

The tragic incident has shocked students and residents in Mbarara, with many expressing concern over growing insecurity targeting students and young people during night hours.

Authorities noted that this marks the second time a student of the University of St Joseph Mbarara has died under unclear circumstances, raising fresh concerns among members of the university community.