Police in Kakumiro District are investigating the mob killing of Hamis Mawejje, who was accused of stealing coffee and groundnuts in Kyampuni Kihumuro village, Kisengwe Sub-county.
The 30-year-old, a resident of Mulika Igoza village in Kibaale District, was alleged to be a member of a notorious gang that used firearms to rob locals. After being caught, Mawejje was tied up, beaten, and his body dumped by the roadside.
Soweto Mukwaya, Mawejje’s uncle, acknowledged his nephew’s troubled past, admitting that despite repeated warnings, Mawejje continued to steal and joined a gang. “Killing him might be for the best—he could have targeted me next,” Mukwaya remarked.
Gabriel Baguma, chairman of Mulika Igoza village, echoed the sentiment, stating that Mawejje’s death might bring relief to the community, as he had been a source of fear and trouble.
Some residents expressed relief over Mawejje’s death, with one saying, “Now, we can live peacefully, knowing he is gone.”
Albertine Region Police Spokesperson Julius Hakiza confirmed the incident but condemned the mob justice, urging people to report suspects to authorities instead of taking the law into their own hands.
Police are actively investigating those involved in the killing. Mawejje’s body was retrieved by relatives for burial preparations in his home village.
