Bugiri, Uganda: A 50-year-old man Thursday surrendered himself to police in Bugiri after surviving a near-lynching by an angry mob that accused him of stealing chickens and other household property.
The suspect, identified as Egesa Patrick, handed himself over at Bugiri Central Police Station on Wednesday after residents of Katawo Cell, Nkusi Ward in Eastern Division, Bugiri Municipality, reportedly cornered and began stoning him over alleged theft.
According to residents, Egesa was found with hens suspected to have been stolen from Namugaya Harriet, a resident of the same area. The discovery triggered outrage among locals, who accused him of being a serial offender.
Nakidodo Sauda, another resident, claimed that several of her stolen household items were also recovered from Egesa’s residence.
“He stole my television, hoofer, saucepans and mattresses. We found them at his home,” she said, urging security agencies to intervene and restore safety in the community.
Namugaya Harriet alleged that this was the third time her chickens had been stolen and linked the losses to Egesa.
“He has been arrested before on similar cases. We want authorities to ensure justice is done because we are tired,” she said.
Another neighbour, Sayid Kyeyago, accused the suspect of stealing iron bars and poisoning animals in the area. He further alleged that Egesa had recently attempted to steal his goats but was foiled.
Local Council I Chairperson of Katawo Cell, Musa Bazibu, condemned the alleged acts and appealed to police not to release the suspect, warning that residents were still angry and could take the law into their own hands.
“He was recently in court over similar offences, but he continues with the same vice. If he is released, the situation may worsen because many locals want to lynch him,” Bazibu said.
Police in Bugiri had not yet issued an official statement by press time but confirmed that the suspect is in custody as investigations into the alleged thefts continue.
The incident highlights growing tensions in some communities over petty theft, with security agencies repeatedly warning residents against mob justice and urging them to report suspects through lawful channels.
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