By Enock Ndyamuhakyi
Rubanda, Uganda-Police in Rubanda District are investigating a tragic incident in which a 30-year-old man, Bruno Tumukunde, was lynched by a mob on Wednesday night over allegations of stealing Irish potatoes.
According to Kigezi Regional Police Spokesman, ASP Elly Maate, Tumukunde and another suspect, Rogers Katusiime, 23, both residents of Matakara village, Ikamiro Parish in Muko Sub-county, allegedly broke into the store of a local farmer, Adoniya Zikereta, and stole eight bags of Irish potatoes valued at approximately 1.8 million Ugandan Shillings.
At around 11:20 PM, Muko Police Station Officer in Charge, ASP Mahiirane Vincent, received a distress call from residents reporting that the two suspects had been apprehended and were being beaten by an angry mob.
Police responded swiftly, rescuing the pair from the mob and transporting them to Muko Butare Health Centre.
However, medical staff reportedly declined to admit the suspects, fearing for their safety as the community’s anger had not subsided, especially since the two men were known habitual offenders.
While arrangements were being made to transfer the suspects to Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, Tumukunde succumbed to his injuries.
Maate confirmed that two case files have been opened — one for store breaking and theft and another for murder by mob justice. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Maate further revealed that the stolen potatoes were recovered by the complainant and other residents.
Tumukunde’s body was transported to Kabale Referral Hospital for a post-mortem examination, while Katusiime was released on police bond to his mother to receive medical care.
Authorities have condemned the act of mob justice and urged the public to allow the law to take its course.
