BREAKING! Minister Nyamutoro Survives Shooting Incident in Kisoro District

State Minister for Minerals, Honorable Phiona Nyamutoro, who also serves as the National Female Youth MP, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt when private security guards of the National Cement Company, a subsidiary of the Devki Group, reportedly opened fire on her in Kisoro District. The incident, which took place during her investigation into allegations of illegal mining operations, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for a comprehensive investigation.

The alarming event occurred as Hon. Nyamutoro visited the National Cement Company’s mining site in Kisoro District to investigate reports of unauthorized mining activities. According to eyewitnesses, as she and her team approached the site, security guards affiliated with the company received orders to fire shots at the group. Quick-thinking bodyguards accompanying the minister disarmed the security personnel and arrested them, preventing any injuries.

“The bullets were in the chamber; they got commands from their bosses to shoot at us. We are on duty. This is laughable. Actually, the directors of this mining company should be the ones arrested,” Minister Nyamutoro stated in a press briefing following the incident.

Local authorities responded swiftly to ensure the minister’s safety and began a thorough investigation into both the attack and the company’s activities. This incident has intensified scrutiny on the National Cement Company, which has faced accusations of illegal mining practices that harm the environment and the local community.

Hon. Nyamutoro’s visit to the mining site was part of her ongoing efforts to enforce legal and environmental standards within Uganda’s mining sector. The violent response from the company’s security guards has underscored the urgent need for increased oversight and accountability in the industry.

In light of the attack, Hon. Nyamutoro has called for an immediate suspension of all mining activities by the National Cement Company until a full investigation is conducted. She urged the government to take decisive action against those responsible for the attack and to ensure compliance with mining regulations across the country.

The police have launched an investigation into the shooting, focusing on the actions of the private security guards and the directives they received from their superiors. Authorities are also examining the broader implications of the incident for the security of public officials and the enforcement of mining laws in Uganda.