President saddened by Uganda murder

President Mary McAleese is ‘deeply saddened’ by the murder of Irish missionary Fr Declan O’Toole in Uganda.

The President met Fr O’Toole’s missionary colleagues during her visit to the region at the end of last year.

The 31-year-old was ambushed on Thursday and shot dead.

It is understood he was shot at point blank range.

The Irish Embassy in Kampala is remaining in close contact with the Government there and is expected to receive a full report on the murder.

The main finger of suspicion is pointing at bandits who are active in the area, however reports that one of the killers was wearing military or paramilitary clothing is also fuelling speculation that the Galway priest may have clashed with local authorities.