Police Arrest Three Over Death of Rugby Cranes Player Sydney Gongodyo

The Uganda Police Force has confirmed the arrest of three individuals in connection with the death of rugby player Sydney Gongodyo, which occurred on June 5, 2026.

According to a statement issued on the police force’s official social media platforms, the suspects have been identified as Ssebagala Noordin, Ayebazibwe Roden, and Namukose Juliet. The trio is currently being held at Kira Road Police Station as investigations continue.

In its statement, police said:

“Police at Kira Road Police Station are holding three suspects in connection with the death of Sydney Gongodyo, a professional rugby player, following an incident that occurred on 5 June 2026.”

Preliminary investigations indicate that Gongodyo was allegedly subjected to mob justice after members of the public accused him of snatching a woman’s handbag. However, police emphasized that the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain under active investigation.

The suspects remain in police custody and are assisting investigators with ongoing inquiries.

The Uganda Police Force condemned acts of mob justice and urged members of the public to report suspected criminal activities to law enforcement authorities rather than taking the law into their own hands.

“Mob action undermines the rule of law and can result in the loss of innocent lives,” the statement noted.

Gongodyo’s death has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s sporting community, with tributes continuing to pour in from teammates, clubs, fans, and members of the wider rugby fraternity.

The late Rugby Cranes and Black Pirates player will be laid to rest on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. in Buweri County, Sironko District.