By KT Reporter
Police in Namisindwa District intervened on Thursday morning to rescue Yokan Wonekha, an unregistered surgeon, from an angry mob that sought to lynch him after he allegedly mutilated the genitals of a boy during a circumcision ceremony.
The incident occurred in Bushuma village, Buwambgwa Parish, Namboko Sub-County, Namisindwa District, during the traditional Kadodi circumcision dance. According to Safu Sitsangi, a local resident, the mob, armed with machettes, clubs, and stones, began assaulting Wonekha after the incident.
However, Stephen Matenga, the LCI Chairperson of Bushuma Village, intervened by contacting the police, who managed to save Wonekha from the mob. Matenga confirmed that the victim, in critical condition, was rushed to Butiru Crisco Hospital in Butiru Town Council, Manafwa District, for further medical attention.
The victim’s father, Stephen Kitsala, demanded justice, insisting that Wonekha face the law for his actions. Stephen Masiga, the Communications Officer for Inzu Yamasaba, condemned the incident, blaming the chaos on individuals who disregard the institution’s circumcision roadmap.
He noted that Inzu Yamasaba had recently issued clear guidelines for the December circumcision season, but some people defied these instructions, leading to such problems. Fred Wamakoko, Chairperson of Local Surgeons in the Bugisu region, also condemned Wonekha’s actions, stating that he is not a registered surgeon.
“In my records, I have 163 registered surgeons authorized by Inzu Yamasaba to conduct circumcisions. Bugisu region has over 500 surgeons, but many refuse to register. I warn the public against using unregistered surgeons because they lack the necessary skills and certification,” Wamakoko said.
Rogers Taitika, the Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident, stating that Wonekha is currently detained at Bubutu Police Post as investigations continue. Police have called on the public to cooperate with investigations and adhere to the institution’s circumcision roadmap to avoid further incidents.
