Suspected goat thief lynched by mob in Buyende

Buyende, Uganda: Police in Buyende District have launched investigations into a mob justice killing that left a 20-year-old man dead after he was accused of stealing goats.

The victim, Ippu Tigawalana, a resident of Kamugoya Village in Kagulu Sub-county, was lynched by an angry crowd on April 22, 2026, at Igwaya Market.

According to preliminary police findings, Tigawalana and another suspect, Kundu James, 19, allegedly stole eight goats belonging to Gerald Mutebi on the night of April 21–22.

The complainant reportedly tracked the suspects to Igwaya Market, where he found them in possession of two of the stolen animals.

When confronted, Tigawalana attempted to flee but was apprehended by members of the public, who assaulted him, leading to his death.

Kundu James was rescued by police and is currently in custody, assisting with investigations.

Authorities have strongly condemned the incident, warning against the growing trend of mob justice in communities.

Sulaiman K. Lubega, the Regional Police Spokesperson, urged the public to respect due process. “Police strongly condemn acts of mob justice and urge members of the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands,” he said.

“Such actions undermine the rule of law and can lead to wrongful loss of life.”

The body of the deceased has been taken to the mortuary pending a post-mortem examination.

The Buyende incident mirrors a recent case in Bulopa, where two men were killed by mobs over suspected theft, highlighting a worrying pattern of vigilante justice in parts of Uganda.

According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report 2025, mob justice cases continue to be recorded across the country, often linked to theft-related accusations and community frustration over delayed justice.

Police say such acts not only violate the law but also risk targeting innocent individuals without proper investigation.

Authorities are now calling for increased community awareness and cooperation with law enforcement to prevent further loss of life.