Zombo constructor survives mob lynching after goat theft
Mob justice remains a troubling issue in Uganda, with 746 lives lost to it in 2021.
Zombo: A local constructor narrowly escaped being lynched by an angry mob after he was allegedly caught red-handed roasting a stolen goat in his house in Mawa Cell, Omua Ward, Paidha Town Council, Zombo District, on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Police from Paidha Central Police Station intervened just in time to rescue the suspect, Abdala Opar, from a furious crowd that had gathered at the home of Mawa Cell Chairperson, Aliana Oryem, where he was temporarily held.
Opar, now in police custody at Paidha Central Police Station, was arrested after a complaint was filed by Rukia Berocan, the owner of the stolen goat.
Berocan recounted, “We became suspicious after noticing dogs roaming around his compound. After informing our LCI chairperson, his team investigated and found him roasting my goat in his house.”
Mawa Cell LCI Chairperson, Aliana Oryem, confirmed the incident, stating that his defense team acted on a tip-off from locals.
“My team caught him red-handed roasting a stolen goat. When the news spread, locals armed themselves and attempted to lynch him. Fortunately, we informed the police, who came and rescued him,” Oryem said.
Oryem cautioned residents against mob justice and urged them to report theft cases to the authorities. He also called for collective efforts to curb theft in the area.
Mob justice remains a troubling issue in Uganda, with 746 lives lost to it in 2021. Zombo District youth chairperson, Amos Jacan, encouraged young people to stay productive and take advantage of government programs aimed at poverty alleviation.
Meanwhile, Zombo RDC Festus Ayikobua recently expressed concerns over increased livestock theft in the district, emphasizing the need for community sensitization and vigilance.
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