On Tuesday night, residents of Kyambala Village in Bukulula Sub-county, Kalungu, took matters into their own hands, killing and burning a suspected robber.
The victim, a young man estimated to be around 20 years old and dressed in military boots, was killed and set alight along with his motorcycle, which bore the registration number UGF 783M. This event followed an alleged robbery attempt by the suspect and his accomplices at the homes of local residents Eddy Yiga, a hairdresser, and Patrick Wasswa, a fuel vendor.
The raiders reportedly targeted these homes during the night, which sparked a swift and violent response from the community, already frustrated by ongoing theft problems.
Perezi Ddungu, the chairperson of Kyambala Village, voiced his frustration over the escalating crime rate in the area. He recalled the significant impact that Local Defense Unit (LDU) guards had in previously controlling such incidents during their deployment.
Ddungu expressed concern about the rise in livestock theft, crop destruction, break-ins, and street ambushes, and called for stronger security measures to safeguard residents.
In response to the incident, Bukulula Subcounty chairperson Husein Bazadde Kaweesa and Kalungu vice chairperson Irene Nanyanzi condemned the actions of the residents. They highlighted that such acts of vigilantism undermine the rule of law and urged the community to focus on constructive activities to improve their lives and deter criminal behavior.
Following the event, the deceased’s body and the remains of the motorcycle were sent to Masaka for forensic examination. Greater Masaka police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify the victim and track down any potential accomplices who may have escaped.
Authorities continue to caution against mob justice, reminding the public that these actions breach legal protocols and hinder the fair administration of justice for all involved.