Katakwi residents warned against mob justice

RDC Katakwi has cautioned area residents against taking the law into their hands by engaging in mob justice, saying it's similarly an offence.

Filbert Ocailap, issued the stern warning following a scenario where Sam Okello of Adukut village on Tuesday surived being lynched by an angry mob.

Okello believed to be in his mid-twenties was allegedly found with stolen cattle belonging to Alex Engolet of Oriau B village.

Speaking to New Vision in his office on Wednesday Ocailap said he appreciates the fact that the locals are key figures in the fight against crime, but that does not mandate them to take the law into their hands.

The RDC urged them to always report the criminals to the police station to make sure they do not kill a suspect who might be innocent.

"I am asking the public to restrain from taking justice into their hands. One might be found in the crime scene and just be a victim of circumstance, having not been involved in any way with the crime," he said.

Ocailap told the residents to let the police officers deal with the suspects till they prove their innocence in a court of law.

He added that the work of the police is to maintain law and order and not to deliver corpses to the mortuary.

The RDC further noted with concern that there have been a series of lynching incidences in the recent past and it's high time the residents shun from the habit.

On the other hand, he cautioned those engaging in criminal activities to stop the heinous acts since the wrath of the law won't spare them.