Mayuge, Uganda: A suspected chicken thief has been lynched by an angry mob in Nkolongo Village, Malongo Sub-county, in an incident that has reignited concerns over rising theft and mob justice in rural communities.
The deceased, believed to be between 25 and 30 years old, had not been identified by press time. He was reportedly found with five suspected stolen hens, along with a hoe and sacks, before being attacked and killed by residents on Tuesday morning.
According to LC1 Chairperson Isabirye Faluku, the suspect attempted to flee after being confronted by locals but was pursued and beaten to death.
“He is around 28 years old and people tried to stop him and he attempted to escape but the locals pursued and killed him. This was a bad thing and we urge youths to use their energetic age in accomplishing developmental ventures,” Faluku said.
Residents alleged that the suspect had been involved in repeated thefts in the area and often disguised his identity.
Malongo Sub-county councillor Ronald Mukose condemned the killing, warning that mob justice undermines investigations and the rule of law.
“When you kill a suspect, you kill the evidence. Every suspect is innocent until proven guilty, and such actions deny authorities the chance to uncover wider criminal networks,” Mukose said.
Police from Bukatabira responded to the scene and were coordinating with Mayuge Central Police Station to document evidence and transport the body to the mortuary.
Residents say theft cases in Malongo Sub-county have surged in recent months, with many households losing livestock and other valuables.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report 2025, mob justice incidents remain a persistent challenge, often linked to community frustration over slow investigations and recurring petty crime. The report also highlights theft as one of the most common offences in rural districts, frequently triggering retaliatory violence.
Local leaders have now called for stronger police-community collaboration to curb crime and prevent further unlawful killings.
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