Police in Kassanda District have launched investigations and intensified a manhunt for four suspects accused of setting homes on fire following a violent land-related dispute in Bukuya Town Council.
The incident occurred on May 28, 2026, in Bakule Cell, Bukuya Town Council, where a longstanding land disagreement reportedly escalated into violence, leaving two families homeless after their houses were burnt to ashes.
According to the Wamala Regional Police Spokesperson, SSP Lameck Kigozi, the conflict stems from a disputed kibanja currently under court consideration between Ms. Eunice Nalubwama, 53, and Mr. Byamukama Lauben.
Police say that at about 7:00am, Nalubwama deployed five casual labourers to cultivate the contested land.
However, at around 10:00am, Byamukama reportedly visited the land and found the workers carrying out cultivation activities.
“After finding people digging on the disputed land, the suspect allegedly left the area and later returned with a group of men armed with pangas and sticks. They attacked the labourers, triggering a violent confrontation,” SSP Kigozi said.
The workers were reportedly overpowered and fled the scene. However, the attackers allegedly pursued them to their residences, where the situation turned more destructive.
Police allege that the suspects set fire to houses belonging to the victims, destroying all household property inside.
The arson attack left residents Moses Ssemuli and Meddy Nganda counting heavy losses after their homes and belongings were completely destroyed.
“The houses were reduced to ashes together with all the property that was inside. Fortunately, no deaths were reported, but the victims suffered significant losses,” Kigozi added.
The suspects have been identified as Byamukama Lauben, Sekyanzi Khalid, Muyanja, and Daniel. All four reportedly fled the area immediately after the incident and remain at large.
Following a report filed at Bukuya Police Station, officers visited and documented the scene, recorded statements from victims and witnesses, and opened a case of arson and malicious damage to property.
“We have commenced investigations and efforts to trace and arrest the suspects are ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist police should come forward,” SSP Kigozi said.
Police have also urged members of the public to avoid taking the law into their own hands whenever disputes arise, especially in land-related conflicts.
“Land disagreements should be resolved through lawful channels such as courts of law and the offices of Resident District Commissioners. Acts of mob justice and revenge only worsen the situation and expose individuals to criminal liability,” Kigozi warned.
Authorities say investigations are continuing as security agencies work to apprehend the suspects and establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.