Police in the Katonga Region have launched intensified investigations into a fatal shooting incident that occurred during a Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) inspection operation at Abbarci Industries Ltd, leaving one factory worker dead and three police officers under arrest.
The deceased has been identified as Katerega Musa, a machine operator at the coffee processing facility located in Kanoni Cell, Kanoni Town Council. The incident occurred on July 1, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m.
According to Katonga Regional Police spokesperson SP Lydia Tumushabe, UCDA officials, accompanied by armed security personnel and police officers, had visited the factory to conduct an inspection linked to coffee processing and compliance requirements.
Uganda’s coffee sector remains one of the country’s top foreign exchange earners, with authorities in recent years increasing inspections and enforcement operations aimed at improving quality standards, eliminating illegal processing practices, and protecting export credibility in international markets.
Police said the inspection team was reportedly led by an official identified as Mathias, who was known to the Acting Factory Manager and Accountant, Nalubega Zalika.
Preliminary findings indicate that tensions developed during the operation before a physical confrontation reportedly broke out among some individuals present at the scene.
Video footage recovered by investigators allegedly shows a scuffle moments before gunfire erupted.
Authorities are now examining the chain of events that led to the shooting, including the actions of both security personnel and civilians present during the operation.
As investigations continue, three police officers attached to Butambala Police Station have been arrested to assist with inquiries.
The officers have been identified as PC Mujuni Nicholas, PC Welikhe Dan Alex, and Corporal Foste Bosco.
Police said the suspects remain in custody and are expected to be arraigned in court as investigations progress.
“We remain committed to conducting thorough, impartial, and professional investigations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice,” SP Lydia Tumushabe stated.
The fatal shooting has since sparked concern among residents and workers in Gomba District, with local leaders and members of the public calling for transparency, accountability, and a comprehensive investigation into the conduct of the armed personnel involved in the operation.
The incident comes at a time when public scrutiny over the use of force during enforcement exercises by state
 inspection operation at Abbarci Industries Ltd, leaving one factory worker dead and three police officers under arrest.){kind=link}