Police in Kasese District have launched investigations into the death of a 20-year-old man who allegedly succumbed to injuries after being assaulted by a mob that suspected him of being a thief.
The deceased has been identified as Wisborn Mumbere, a resident of Sayuni Central Cell, Kihogo Ward, Rugendabara-Kikongo Town Council in Kasese District.
According to the Rwenzori East Regional Police spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate, the incident occurred in the early hours of July 11, 2026, at around 2:00 a.m.
Police said Mumbere had left his home to attend a funeral within Sayuni Central Cell when he was allegedly mistaken for a thief by members of the public.
"During the night of July 11, 2026, at around 2:00 a.m., the victim left home to attend a funeral within Sayuni Central Cell. On his way, he was suspected of being a thief by members of the public, who assaulted him in an act of mob justice, causing him serious injuries," ASP Maate said.
The injured man was rushed to Rukoki Hospital by his parents for treatment. Despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life, he was pronounced dead on July 13, 2026, at around 8:00 p.m.
Police said an assault case had initially been registered at Rugendabara-Kikongo Police Station but was later upgraded to a murder case following the victim's death.
"A case of assault had been registered at Rugendabara-Kikongo Police Station, which has now been upgraded to murder by mob action," ASP Maate said.
He added that the body would undergo a postmortem examination as detectives intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.
"Efforts are underway to identify and arrest those involved for prosecution. Inquiries are still ongoing," he said.
Police have once again appealed to the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and instead report suspects to security agencies for lawful handling.
