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Old man suspected to have stolen a phone being attacked in Mbale, (Courtesy Photo)
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The Uganda Police Force is issuing a stern warning to the public against the alarming rise in incidents of mob justice across the country. While we understand the frustration and anger that can arise in communities when crimes occur, it is crucial to remember that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The police, as the custodians of law and order, must be allowed to carry out proper investigations and ensure that justice is served in a lawful manner.
On August 13, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded in Kijungu Cell, Kakoba Ward, Mbarara City. A man named Ddungu Amidu was brutally lynched by a mob after being found with two stolen and slaughtered goats. The police arrived at the scene too late to save his life. The body was taken to Mbarara Hospital Mortuary for a postmortem, and investigations are ongoing to bring those responsible to justice.
The following day, on August 14, 2024, in Kibubu Village, Buikwe District, five suspects were involved in the theft of two cows. Their escape was thwarted when they suffered a puncture while transporting the stolen meat on motorcycles. Suspicious onlookers noticed their actions and pursued them. Two of the suspects, John and Shadrach Magere, were caught and beaten by the mob. Despite police intervention, John succumbed to his injuries at Kawolo Hospital. The mob's relentless pursuit led to the arrest of another suspect, Sunday Swaleh Ricky, who sought refuge with the police. He is currently detained at CPS Lugazi as investigations continue.
On the same day, in Kyengera Town Council, Wakiso District, a man named Sekamate John narrowly escaped a similar fate. Accused of theft, Sekamate was found with tools commonly used for breaking and entering. The police arrived just in time to rescue him from a mob and transported him to Mulago Hospital for treatment.
In the Elgon Region, another life was lost to mob justice on August 16, 2024. In Manafwa District, a man named Wamutibi Edwin James was accused of stealing a motorcycle and attempting to sell it. When the rightful owners tracked him down, Wamutibi fled but was caught by an enraged crowd on Kufu Bukaweka Road. He was stoned to death, his body left by the roadside. The police later recovered the body and the motorcycle, and investigations are underway to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.
Suspect being attacked by a mob. (Courtesy photo)
ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the Uganda Police Force's Public Relations Officer, strongly condemned these acts of mob justice. "While the pain of loss and the desire for immediate justice are understandable, taking the law into our own hands only leads to more violence and suffering," he said. "We urge all citizens to report suspicious activities to the police and allow us to do our job. Everyone deserves a fair trial, and no one should be denied their right to justice."
The Uganda Police Force is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that every suspect is treated fairly. We call on all Ugandans to stand with us in rejecting mob justice and working together to create a safer, more just society.
Source: Uganda Police
