Residents of Misanga Village in Bbaale Sub-county, Kayunga District, have appealed for government intervention following alleged threats of illegal eviction by armed men reportedly wearing Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) uniforms.
The residents made the appeal during a monitoring visit by Kayunga Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Jimmy Nsimbi Mugwanya, saying the unidentified armed men had ordered them to vacate land they have occupied for years, leaving families living in fear and uncertainty.
According to the residents, the alleged intimidation has disrupted their daily lives, with many uncertain about the future of their homes and livelihoods.
Margaret Kadozi, one of the affected residents, said they have nowhere else to go.
"We have nowhere else to go. We were shocked when armed men ordered us to leave our land. We appeal to the RDC and the government to protect us and ensure justice is done because we are living in fear," she said.
Another resident called on authorities to investigate those behind the alleged threats.
"We want the authorities to establish who is behind these threats. We are law-abiding citizens and deserve to live peacefully on our land," the resident said.
Addressing the community, RDC Jimmy Nsimbi Mugwanya condemned the alleged illegal evictions and warned individuals using force or impersonating security personnel to intimidate residents.
"No individual has the authority to illegally evict wananchi from their land. We shall not allow criminals to use security uniforms to terrorize innocent people. Whoever is found behind these unlawful acts will face the full force of the law," Mugwanya said.
The RDC urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious individuals involved in illegal evictions or activities that threaten public safety.
"I call upon all residents to immediately report anyone they suspect to be behind these security threats or unlawful evictions. Government is committed to protecting its citizens, safeguarding property rights, and ensuring peace and security prevail across Kayunga District," he emphasized.
Mugwanya reassured residents that investigations into the allegations would be conducted and that anyone found responsible would be held accountable.
The incident adds to growing concerns over land-related disputes in parts of Kayunga District, with local leaders calling for lawful mechanisms to resolve ownership conflicts instead of intimidation and violence.
