A case of mob justice has claimed the life of a 22-year-old man, Abbey Nyanzi in Lunyolya LC1, Kalagala Subcounty, Luwero District.
On Tuesday, Nyanzi was brutally beaten and set on fire by an angry mob after he and his 24-year-old brother, Yasin Kange were accused of stealing chickens.
The incident began when residents of Nabugolo town recognized chickens allegedly stolen by the brothers.
As the brothers were passing through the town, locals identified the birds in their possession and quickly formed a mob.
The mob detained both men, taking Kange to the local area chairman’s residence while Nyanzi fled into a nearby bush.
When the chairman was found to be absent, tensions escalated.
The mob violently attacked Kange and set their motorcycle on fire. They then pursued Nyanzi, who had hidden in the bush, brutally assaulting him before setting him ablaze.
Police were alerted and responded swiftly, documenting the crime scene. Both brothers were transported to Luwero Hospital, where Kange is currently receiving medical treatment. Nyanzi's body has been sent for a postmortem examination.
ASP Twineamazima Sam, the Police Spokesperson for the Savannah Region, condemned the act of mob justice, emphasizing the need for due process.
"Taking the law into your own hands only leads to tragedy," Twineamazima said. "We urge the public to report suspicions to the authorities and allow the law to take its course. No one should ever face such a horrific death."
Police have recorded statements from witnesses and are continuing their investigation, urging the community to refrain from further violence.