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24 huts torched after one killed in Zombo land dispute

Similar incidents have been reported in Paidha Sub-County, as well as in Nyapea, Aka, Jangokoro, and Atyak Sub-Counties.

Zombo: A retaliatory attack in Olyeku Pambu village, Cana Parish, Paidha Sub-County, Zombo District, led to the torching of 24 huts on December 1, 2024.

The violence was triggered by the death of a local resident, Juma, in a dispute over land ownership, according to local leaders.

William Okethi, the LCIII chairperson of Paidha Sub-County, confirmed the incident, which occurred on Sunday evening. He emphasized the importance of resolving such misunderstandings through peaceful means.

“The incident was triggered by the death of Juma, who was allegedly killed due to a land wrangle,” Okethi stated. He also noted that, while no arrests had been made, the situation calmed after security forces were deployed to the area.

The police from Paidha Central Police Station documented the crime scene. The attack left many, including women and children, homeless.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Zombo, Bruno Mananu, assured the public that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. He also cautioned the community against taking the law into their own hands, urging residents to use legal channels to resolve grievances.

Collins Asea, the West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, provided limited details, mentioning that they were awaiting updates from the District Police Commander.

Zombo has experienced a recent surge in violent land disputes, leading to loss of life and property, and leaving many residents in poverty. Similar incidents have been reported in Paidha Sub-County, as well as in Nyapea, Aka, Jangokoro, and Atyak Sub-Counties.

In a recent council meeting, Zombo District Resident Commissioner Festus Ayikobua urged collective efforts to address the rampant land conflicts. Despite the formal recognition of customary land ownership in Uganda’s 1995 Constitution, only a few people in Zombo recognize it, with more than 90% of land in the district held under customary ownership.

Stella Biryema, head of the human rights desk at Life Concern, a Zombo-based NGO, advised the community to engage in official land registration processes to prevent future disputes.

The King of Alur, His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Ularker III, has repeatedly called for peace among his people, urging them to avoid violence over land issues.

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