By KT Reporter
Residents of Kagadi District have increasingly resorted to mob justice in response to rising cases of theft of domestic animals, crops, and household items.
Community members say they have repeatedly reported theft to police, but continuous losses have driven them to take matters into their own hands.
On Friday at around 3:00 am, an unidentified man was beaten to death by angry residents of Bwera Village, Galiboleka Sub-county, after he was allegedly caught attempting to steal goats.
According to the village LC1 chairperson, Tukamutunga Enos, the deceased was reportedly part of a group of three suspects who fled on a motorcycle, leaving him behind. Tukamutunga explained that the suspects had already stolen one goat and were attempting to steal more from Charles Byamukama, who raised an alarm that attracted neighbours to intervene.
He noted that the mob action stems from frustration over the growing theft of domestic animals, household property, and crops such as coffee and cocoa, which has left residents feeling unprotected.
Peace Tukasasira, who recently lost her motorcycle (registration number UFU 928/C) to unknown thieves, expressed relief, saying mob justice might help restore peace in the area.
Another resident, Jackson Tumwesigye, said the community has been enduring sleepless nights guarding their animals and gardens. He added that with theft escalating, they feel they have been left with no choice but to take the law into their own hands.
The LC3 chairperson for Galiboleka Sub-county, Emmanuel Asaba, confirmed the rise in criminal activity, revealing that up to 80% of cases reported to his office and the local police post involve theft of crops and animals.
He said local leaders, in partnership with police, are planning to intensify community policing to curb the crime rate.
Officers from Kagadi Central Police Station visited the scene and transported the body to Kagadi General Hospital mortuary for postmortem as they await relatives to come forward and identify the deceased.
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