ARUA CITY, UGANDA: Two men have been beaten to death by an angry mob in Arua City after they were suspected of attempting to steal a motorcycle, in a brutal incident that has renewed concerns over rising mob justice.
The killings occurred on the night of March 23, 2026, at Buniababa Trading Centre in Odravu Ward, Ayivu East Division.
According to West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, SSP Josephine Angucia, the victims, identified as Aliga Godfrey, 31, and Mabe Vincent, 24, were intercepted by residents who had organized themselves to guard against rampant motorcycle thefts in the area.
The duo was reportedly seen pushing a numberless red Bajaj motorcycle, which the mob believed had been stolen.
“They abandoned the motorcycle and attempted to flee, but were chased, captured, and beaten to death,” Angucia said.
Police from Oluko and Ayivu East Division responded to the scene, recovered the suspected stolen motorcycle, and transported the bodies to Arua Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for post-mortem.
The case has been registered as murder by mob under reference CRB 55/2026, with investigations ongoing.
Preliminary findings indicate that both deceased were residents of the area and had previously been linked to allegations of motorcycle theft.
Authorities have strongly condemned the killings, warning that those involved in the mob action will face murder charges.
Angucia urged residents to report suspected criminals to police rather than taking the law into their own hands.
The incident adds to a growing pattern of mob justice across parts of the country, often driven by frustration over theft and insecurity, but criticized for undermining due process and lawful investigation.
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