A 27-year-old man, Mawa Taban, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for pouring acid on his friend after accusing him of theft. Taban, a watchman at 180 Degree Grow Kisasi, was convicted by the Buganda Road Court Chief Magistrate after changing his plea from not guilty to guilty.
The incident occurred on March 26, 2024, in Kampala’s Nakawa Division. Taban lured his friend, Ivan Oyirwoth, to an isolated location under the pretext of offering him a job. However, his true intention was to torture Oyirwoth, whom he suspected of stealing his boss’ television.
During the attack, Taban poured acid on Oyirwoth, causing severe burns to 98% of his body, including his genitals. The victim remains in critical condition.
In sentencing Taban, Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi emphasized the need for a deterrent sentence to discourage such heinous acts. He noted that the crime was particularly egregious, given the severity of the injuries inflicted on the victim.