Police in Buyende District are investigating the death of a suspected cattle thief who was beaten by a mob in Buyende Town Council on Thursday.
The deceased, identified as 28-year-old Umali Gabiri of Dema Cell, was found near the Buyende Cattle Market with a black-and-white she-goat believed to have been stolen.
Busoga North Police spokesperson Samson Lubega said residents confronted Gabiri and he allegedly led them to the spot where the goat had been tied.
‘Police responded swiftly to rescue the suspect, who had been rendered unconscious. He was rushed to Buyende Health Centre III, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival,’ Lubega said.
Crime scene officers have collected evidence from the scene. According to Lubega, Gabiri sustained deep facial wounds and multiple injuries on his back, consistent with mob violence.
He cautioned the public against taking the law into their own hands.
‘The Police condemn mob justice. All suspected criminal matters must be reported to police for lawful investigation and prosecution,’ he said.
Lubega also warned that livestock theft and related crimes typically rise during the festive season.
‘As the festive season approaches, we wish to remind the public that livestock theft and related crimes tend to increase during this period,’ he said, urging residents to secure their animals and property and report suspicious activity promptly.
Police said they will increase patrols, strengthen community policing, and engage with local residents to prevent further incidents.
The Buyende case follows a string of similar attacks across Uganda, where suspected thieves have sometimes been killed by vigilante mobs before authorities could intervene, raising concerns over law enforcement and public safety.