Fear grips Ntungamo as machete-wielding assailants chairperson

Ntungamo: Residents of Kagongi Cell, Kagango Ward in Rubaare Town Council, Ntungamo district were left in shock after Mr. Simon Buruma, the LC I Chairperson, was attacked by unknown assailants wielding machetes at his home on the evening of November 12, 2025, around 8:35 PM.

The brutal attack has shaken the local community, sparking widespread fear and anger. The escalating use of machetes in Rubaare and surrounding areas has left many residents demanding justice and greater security to protect their lives.

Mr. Buruma, who is in his 60s, was rushed to Doctor’s Referral Hospital immediately after the attack. However, his condition worsened over the next few hours, prompting a transfer to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital for further treatment the following morning.

The incident has added to a growing number of machete-related attacks in the region, which have led to fatalities and injuries, though the reasons behind the violence remain unclear.

Many residents are attributing the recent surge in machete attacks to night-time robberies carried out by unemployed strangers in the area. These criminals reportedly target people working late or traveling at night, stealing items such as mobile phones, cash, and other valuables.

Alex Akankwasa, a journalist with Radio Thunder FM in Rubaare, shared his personal experience. In May 2025, he was attacked by machete-wielding assailants who stole his mobile phone and sh220,000 (approximately $139 USD) in cash. The attackers also inflicted injuries on his shoulders and feet.

Murushid Nayebare, a Councilor from Akatojo Ward, also recounted his harrowing experience. In July, while at Secret Bar and Lodges in Rubaare, Nayebare and others were attacked by seven assailants armed with machetes. The attackers inflicted injuries on the victims before fleeing the scene.

As a local leader, Hon. Nayebare is urging residents to remain vigilant and work closely with law enforcement to restore security in the area. He emphasized that many local residents have been attacked by machete-wielding assailants, some of whom have died from their injuries.

In response to the rise in machete attacks, Rubaare police have started engaging with local communities to establish village security committees and vigilante teams aimed at fighting back against the growing threat of violence. According to police, these initiatives are designed to improve community safety, foster cooperation between police and locals, and reduce criminal activity in the area.

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