MUKONO. A surge in animal thefts across Mukono District particularly in Nakisunga and Seeta-Namuganga sub-counties has sparked a wave of community-led crackdowns, resulting in at least nine suspected thieves being lynched in less than a month.
The latest incident occurred in Bumbajja Village, Nakisunga sub-county on Wednesday, where unknown assailants raided several homes during the night in an attempt to steal livestock.
However, vigilant residents conducting night foot patrols intercepted the group, killing two suspects on the spot. The mob also set fire to a motorcycle the suspects had used, and recovered four stolen goats. Other suspects reportedly fled the scene.
Residents say the village remains on edge following a string of nighttime livestock raids. In some cases, thieves have allegedly used unidentified ointments to sedate animals before making off with them.
Abdul Diba, a farmer in Bumbajja, described the situation as “escalating and relentless,” adding that many residents are now forced to sleep in animal shelters to protect their livestock.
Ibra Kibabale, another victim who lost four goats, said he discovered the theft during a routine night check. He sounded the alarm using the village loudspeaker, prompting a rapid community response that helped recover the stolen animals.
Charles Mugerwa, the Bumbajja village defence secretary, confirmed that volunteer-led night patrols are now active. However, he criticized local police for allegedly releasing arrested suspects without a thorough investigation.
“People are angry. If police don’t act, more suspects will be lynched,” Mugerwa warned.
Village chairman David Sekamwa noted that the culprits are believed to be young men known within the community many of whom reportedly spend their time loitering and drinking in local bars.
Kisoga Police have taken the bodies believed to have been linked to the thefts and transported them to Mulago Hospital for forensic examination. Despite these efforts, residents feel that justice is not being delivered swiftly enough.
As of mid-September, at least nine suspected thieves have been killed by angry mobs in Nakisunga and Seeta-Namuganga sub-counties alone, highlighting growing frustration and a breakdown in trust between communities and law enforcement.
Authorities are now urging residents to refrain from mob justice and instead report suspects to the police, warning that such acts could result in wrongful deaths and further instability.