A somber mood has gripped Masaka as police investigate the death of Joseph Nasasiira, a 27-year-old security guard who reportedly shot himself earlier today.
The incident occurred at Masaka Recreation Ground, where Nasasiira was deployed by Corporal Security Services.
What Happened?
At around 10:00 AM, residents near the stadium heard a loud gunshot. Initially mistaken for a motorcycle tire burst, the sound soon revealed a grim reality.
Nasasiira’s body was discovered in his room near the stadium entrance, lying in a pool of blood with a gunshot wound to the chest.
Muhammad Yiga, a local resident, recounted the scene: “I heard a loud burst and later saw police patrols entering the stadium. That’s when I realized someone had shot himself.”
A Community in Shock
While the exact motive behind Nasasiira’s actions remains unclear, residents point to possible frustration and financial hardship.
Many allege that security guards at the stadium were overworked and underpaid, often performing additional tasks like fetching water and carrying cement bags without extra compensation.
“This is not the first time we’ve seen such incidents. Security guards work under tough conditions with little or no pay,” Yiga added.
Another resident, Sulaiman, echoed these concerns: “These guards are doing extra work without compensation. It’s likely they’re not even receiving their salaries on time.”
Police Response
Masaka Regional Police Spokesperson Twaha Kasirye confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing.
“We are gathering information to establish the circumstances surrounding the death. The body has been taken to Masaka Hospital for a postmortem, and the firearm has been sent for ballistic analysis,” he said.
Kasirye also condemned the act, urging the public to avoid speculation until the investigation is complete.
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Calls for Change
In the wake of the tragedy, residents are calling for systemic changes to improve the working conditions of security guards.
Some have suggested abolishing private security companies and transferring all security-related jobs to the Uganda Police Force.
“Some guards lack experience, and when they’re given guns, they resort to taking their own lives. This isn’t the first case—a guard at Kampala University also died by suicide recently,” Yiga noted.
Others have urged private security firms to address employees’ grievances and improve wages.
“Security guards are human too. They deserve better working conditions,” one resident remarked.
A Wake-Up Call
Nasasiira’s death has sparked a broader conversation about the mental health and well-being of security personnel.
As police continue their investigation, the community hopes this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize the welfare of those who protect others.
