Mob justice claims life in Otuke district

8 April 2025, 5:05 pm

By Sarah Ejang

On April 7, 2025, at approximately 11:00 hours, the police in Otuke district reported a tragic case of mob murder that has left the community in shock.

The incident took place in Anara village, located in Aloi subcounty of the nearby Alebtong district, before spreading to Alango subcounty within Otuke district.

According to SP Jimmy Patrick Okema North Kyoga police spokesperson, the victim, Ongom Tom, a 28-year-old resident of Pama village in Amingpenyo parish, met a brutal end at the hands of a mob. According to information provided by police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, Ongom was accused of stealing a bull belonging to Apili Josephine, also from Pama village. It is alleged that he sold the stolen bull in Anara village, prompting local residents to take matters into their own hands.

Upon learning of the theft, enraged locals in Anara village apprehended Ongom and transported him back to his home village in Alango subcounty while subjecting him to a relentless beating.

Despite the prompt response from local police officers, who attempted to rescue the victim, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after their arrival, Okema added.

The incident has raised serious concerns regarding mob justice and the dangers it poses to community safety.

Okema added that a formal case of murder by mob has been registered, and an investigation has commenced to bring those responsible to justice.

Authorities have reached out to a medical professional to conduct a postmortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.

Okema mentioned that efforts are being made to locate the rightful owner of the bull to assist in the ongoing investigation.

The Otuke police are actively collaborating with law enforcement in Alebtong to ensure a thorough investigation, with hopes of apprehending all individuals involved in this grievous act according to Okema’s statement

This incident serves as a reminder of the consequences of taking justice into one’s own hands and the importance of relying on law enforcement to address grievances within the community.