Mob kills suspected coffee thief in Kassanda District after angry residents caught two men trying to sell stolen coffee. One suspect died instantly, and the other sustained serious injuries. Police have started a murder investigation.
The suspects, known only as Muna and Ibra, approached a local resident, Bukenya, on Sunday. They allegedly tried to sell him coffee beans that locals believe were stolen. Bukenya became suspicious and alerted neighbors.
A mob quickly gathered in Kalama Village, Myanzi Sub-county, and attacked the suspects. They used sharp tools during the assault. Muna died at the scene, while Ibra lost consciousness from multiple wounds.
SP Michael Teriyeitu, the Acting Police Spokesperson for the Wamala Region, confirmed the incident. He said the village chairperson called the police soon after the attack.
Police officers visited the scene, collected evidence, and launched a formal investigation. They took Muna’s body to Kassanda Health Centre IV for a postmortem. Ibra, in critical condition, received treatment at the same facility.
According to initial investigations, Muna and Ibra came from Naama in Mityana District. Authorities believe they are repeat offenders recently released from prison after serving theft-related sentences.
Mob justice remains common in Uganda, especially in rural areas. Human rights advocates blame this on the public’s growing mistrust in law enforcement.
This recent killing follows another violent case from a month ago. In Kalagala Village, a mob attacked 40-year-old Bosco Senkima for stealing coffee beans. The mob cut off his hands before leaving him for dead.
Police have urged citizens to avoid mob violence. They encouraged reporting crime through proper legal channels instead. Authorities warned that those involved in the lynching will face arrest and prosecution.
Kassanda’s rising mob incidents underscore a critical need for community policing and stronger public trust in Uganda’s justice system.
