Police Probe Killing of Gulu University Lab Technician in Suspected Night Ambush

By Nelson Okello

Gulu, Uganda — May 22, 2026

Police in Gulu District have opened investigations into the killing of a laboratory technician attached to Gulu University, who was attacked while walking home in what authorities believe was a targeted night ambush.

Preliminary findings indicate that the deceased was intercepted by unknown assailants along a commonly used pedestrian route on the outskirts of Gulu City. The attacker(s) are said to have fled immediately after the assault, leaving the victim fatally injured at the scene.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the body was recovered shortly after residents raised alarm. Officers from the scene report signs consistent with a violent struggle, though investigators are still working to establish whether the motive was robbery or premeditated attack.

The area was cordoned off as forensic experts collected evidence to aid in reconstructing the events leading up to the killing. Police have appealed to anyone who may have been in the vicinity at the time to share information that could assist ongoing investigations.

Residents have expressed concern over rising cases of nighttime insecurity along poorly lit paths frequently used by university staff and students, urging authorities to improve lighting and increase patrols.

The deceased’s body has been taken for a postmortem as police continue efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.