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Mubiru Joseph, an 80-year-old peasant (right) with another suspect heading back to prison after court session
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By our Reporter
MPIGI - Four suspects have been arraigned before the Chief Magistrate's Court in Mpigi on charges related to an elaborate scheme to fraudulently acquire a certificate of title for prime land in Gomba District. The land, measuring approximately one square mile, was the focus of a conspiracy involving false representation, perjury, and attempts to mislead public officials and the courts.
The accused—Kiweewa Burton Mugagga, Mubiru Joseph (also known as Yozefu or Kyakwambala), Kifampa John, and Mayanja John Robert—allegedly conspired to illegally obtain land titles for the estate of the late Paul Kibi between June 2022 and August 2023. They falsely presented Mubiru Joseph, an 80-year-old peasant, as the legitimate heir to the estate, deceiving officials at the Ministry Zonal Offices in Mpigi.
In addition to giving false information to public officials, the group is accused of providing fabricated testimony to the Mpigi High Court to secure letters of administration for the estate, furthering their attempts to claim ownership of the land.
Suspects in the dock consulting their counsel on the next move
One of the more disturbing aspects of the case involved allegations that Mr. Kiweewa hired individuals to terrorize the current occupants of the disputed land. Among those involved was notorious gang leader Sobbi, who was killed on the same land last year.
The suspects face charges of Fraudulent Procurement of a Certificate of Title, Giving False Information to Public Officials, Perjury, and Conspiracy to Commit a Misdemeanor. Criminal summons have been issued for other suspects still at large.
The four have been remanded until their next court appearance on October 1, 2024. Authorities from the Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) are continuing to investigate the case.
This case is part of ongoing efforts by Uganda’s authorities to combat land fraud, a prevalent issue in the country, and ensure that justice is served for those seeking to unlawfully claim property.
Torch Media Africa
