Police rescue surgeon from mob over circumcision botch
Wonekha is now detained at Bubutu Police Post as investigations continue.
Namisindwa: A tragic error during a traditional Imbalu circumcision ceremony in Bushuma village, Buwambgwa Parish, Namboko Sub-county, sparked outrage on Thursday, November 28, 2024, as a local surgeon inadvertently severed the manhood of a young man undergoing the ritual.
The incident enraged Kadodi dancers and relatives, who attempted to lynch the surgeon, Yokan Wonekha.
Wonekha was attacked by an angry mob armed with pangas, sticks, and stones. Stephen Matenga, the area LCI Chairperson, intervened and alerted the police, who rescued Wonekha from the scene.
The injured man was rushed to Butiru Chrisco Hospital in Manafwa District and is currently in critical condition.
Wonekha is now detained at Bubutu Police Post as investigations continue.
Stephen Kitsala, the victim’s father, has called for legal action against Wonekha to seek justice for his son.
Stephen Masiga, the communication officer for Inzu Yamasaba, condemned the incident and criticized those defying the institution’s official circumcision roadmap. He stated that unauthorized practices undermine safety standards and cultural integrity.
Fred Wamakoko, chairperson of the Bugisu region’s registered surgeons, revealed that Wonekha was not among the 163 certified surgeons authorized by Inzu Yamasaba.
Wamakoko highlighted the dangers posed by unregistered practitioners, warning that the region has over 500 unregistered surgeons performing circumcisions without proper skills or certification.
Rogers Taitika, Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident and emphasized that Wonekha will face the law.
The tragic event has reignited debates about the risks of unregulated circumcision practices in Bugisu. The Imbalu circumcision ritual, a sacred rite of passage in the region, requires strict adherence to safety protocols. Inzu Yamasaba recently issued guidelines to streamline circumcision ceremonies for December, urging communities to avoid unauthorized practitioners.
Authorities and cultural leaders have advised families to ensure they engage only certified and skilled surgeons for circumcision rituals to prevent such tragic outcomes.
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