Lira, Uganda | A cloud of mystery hangs over Camp Swahili in Lira City East Division after a Kenyan produce dealer was on Tuesday found dead inside his locked room, sparking concern and speculation among residents.
The deceased, identified as Jenga Sam, about 50, had lived in the area for years and was known among traders for his quiet lifestyle and regular involvement in the produce business.
Residents say they were shocked when police arrived in the usually calm neighbourhood after a report from Wamari Issa, a fellow Kenyan national who also resides in the same cell.
Issa told police he became alarmed when he failed to see Jenga in the morning as usual.
Regional Police Spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema said the circumstances surrounding the discovery have raised several questions.
“The body was seen through the window lying on the bed facing the roof, with the legs slanting toward the floor,” he said.
What has particularly puzzled investigators is that the door was locked from the inside, leaving no immediate signs of a struggle or forced entry. Police had to break the door to access the room.
Inside, detectives found a black backpack, clothes scattered on the bed, and an assortment of drugs on a table—items police have since taken as exhibits, along with the deceased’s phone.
The sudden death has unsettled many in the neighbourhood, with some residents wondering whether Jenga may have been ill, while others whisper about the possibility of poisoning or self-harm—speculation the police have urged the public to avoid until investigations are complete.
The body was taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for a postmortem to determine the cause of death, while detectives await a statement from the manager of the premises, who is yet to come forward.
For now, authorities are piecing together the trader’s final hours, hoping the ongoing investigation will provide clarity and ease community concerns.
