Residents living near Lubigi Swamp in areas such as Kawaala and Nansana have raised alarm over escalating criminal activity, urging authorities to strengthen security presence to curb growing violence and theft.
Tension heightened following the discovery of body parts wrapped in a sack and submerged in Lubigi Swamp. The remains were reportedly found by children scavenging for empty bottles in the wetland.
Residents suspect the dismembered remains belong to a woman, although police had not formally confirmed the identity by press time.
The gruesome find has deepened fear within the community, with locals saying criminals appear to be taking advantage of what they describe as inadequate policing in the area.
Residents claim cases of theft and violent attacks have become increasingly frequent.
Police responded to the scene and deployed officers alongside canine units to conduct searches in and around the swamp as investigations commenced.
Rachel Kawala, the spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
“Police received information about body parts discovered in Lubigi Swamp. Our teams responded promptly and retrieved the remains. Investigations are underway to establish the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the death,” Kawala said.
She added that forensic examinations would be conducted to support the inquiry and urged members of the public to share any information that could assist investigators.
Residents, however, say the response must go beyond investigations. Community leaders have called for the establishment of a more visible and permanent police presence in the Lubigi area to deter criminal activity.
Some locals also linked the security vacuum to past evictions carried out in the wetland by the National Environment Management Authority (Nema), arguing that the cleared spaces may have inadvertently created hiding grounds for criminal elements.
Local leaders are now appealing to government to deploy additional officers and intensify patrols, saying enhanced security is essential to restore confidence and safety in the densely populated settlements bordering the swamp.
Despite the fear and anger triggered by the discovery, community members have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as investigations continue.
