A woman has been shot dead and a police officer injured in a gunfire exchange between security personnel and suspected attackers who raided a lodge near Lake Mulehe in Kisoro District.

The incident occurred at about 2am on Thursday, November 5, at Mucha Lodges along Mutolere-Nyundo Road.

The deceased was identified as Nasozi Kiyaga, a resident of Kampala who was staying at the lodge as a guest. The injured officer is Police Constable Charles Mukesi, who was deployed to guard the premises.

According to Kigezi Region Police spokesperson Nelson Tumushime, officers responded after the assailants attacked the lodge, resulting in an exchange of gunfire in which Kiyaga was fatally shot while Mukesi sustained a bullet wound to his left leg.

Mukesi was rushed to Kisoro Hospital for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.

Tumushime said police had launched an operation to track down the attackers, adding that security had been reinforced in the area to protect residents and tourists.

Police have appealed to members of the public to remain calm and volunteer any information that could lead to the identification and arrest of the suspects.

The motive of the attack and the circumstances under which the woman was shot remain unclear as investigations continue.