Police in Rubanda District are investigating an incident of mob action in which angry residents set two motorcycles ablaze after allegedly suspecting their riders of involvement in livestock theft.
The incident reportedly occurred at around 2:00 a.m. in Rwamiganda Village, Mpungu Parish, Hamurwa Sub-county, Rubanda District.
According to preliminary information, residents intercepted two motorcycles after suspecting the riders of being livestock thieves allegedly terrorising the area.
The riders reportedly fled the scene before the angry residents set the motorcycles on fire.
Kigezi Region Police spokesperson Nelson Tumushime confirmed the incident, saying police had recovered the burnt wreckages of the two motorcycles as exhibits to support investigations.
Tumushime condemned the incident, warning the public against taking the law into their own hands and urging residents to report suspected criminal activity to the relevant authorities.
“We strongly condemn acts of mob justice. Taking the law into your own hands is criminal. We urge the public to always report suspected criminals to police or local leaders for lawful handling,” Tumushime said.
He added that investigations were ongoing, with police pursuing efforts to identify and arrest the suspected livestock thieves as well as individuals believed to have led the mob.
Police have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure that suspected criminals are handled through lawful procedures.
The incident highlights the continuing challenge of mob justice, in which suspected offenders are subjected to violence or punishment by members of the public before their guilt has been established through the legal process.