Suspected motorcycle thief beaten to death in Masindi, set ablaze
"We have arrested the owner of the motorcycle as investigations continue to identify and apprehend all those involved. Mob justice is illegal and undermines proper criminal investigations," Mugisa said.
Masindi: Police in Masindi District have launched investigations into the killing of a man suspected of motorcycle theft after he was allegedly lynched by an angry mob and his body set ablaze in Kasambya Village, Pakanyi Sub-county.
The deceased has been identified as Jeremy Ongei, 30, who was reportedly attacked in the early hours of Wednesday after residents allegedly found him with a suspected stolen motorcycle, registration number UFU 738S, hidden in a sugarcane plantation.
According to Pakanyi Sub-county LC3 Chairperson Robert Okumu, motorcycle theft has become a growing concern in the area, with about five motorcycles reportedly stolen within a short period.
“Residents reportedly found the deceased with a suspected stolen motorcycle hidden in a sugarcane plantation. We condemn mob justice and urge the public to hand over suspects to police instead of taking the law into their own hands,” Okumu said.
Okumu also appealed to young people to embrace lawful means of earning a living and avoid criminal activities such as theft and gambling.
However, the deceased’s father, Christopher Opio, rejected allegations that his son was involved in motorcycle theft, describing him as a hardworking farmer with no known criminal record.
“My son was a farmer and had never been involved in criminal activities. I appeal to police to thoroughly investigate his death and ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” Opio said.
ASP Solomon Mugisa, the Albertine North Region Community Liaison Officer and Acting Regional Police Spokesperson confirmed the incident, revealing that police have arrested the owner of the motorcycle, identified as David Obedgiu, 30, to assist with investigations.
“We have arrested the owner of the motorcycle as investigations continue to identify and apprehend all those involved. Mob justice is illegal and undermines proper criminal investigations,” Mugisa said.
Police have urged members of the public to report suspected criminals to security agencies instead of resorting to violence.
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