Police hunt for four men over arson attack linked to land dispute in Kassanda

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Police in Kassanda district have intensified a manhunt for four men accused of torching homes and destroying property following a violent land dispute in Bukuya Town Council.

The suspects, Lauben Byamukama, Khalid Sekyanzi and others identified only as Muyanja and Daniel, are on the run after allegedly setting ablaze houses belonging to their rivals in Bakule Cell on May 28.

According to Wamala Regional Police spokesperson Lameck Kigozi, the violence stemmed from a long-running land dispute between Eunice Nalubwama, 53, and Byamukama over ownership of a kibanja, a matter that is currently before court.

Kigozi said Nalubwama had sent five casual labourers to cultivate the disputed land at around 7:00am on Thursday last week when the attack happened. 

“At about 10:00 am, Byamukama visited the land and found the labourers digging. He reportedly left and later returned with four other people armed with pangas and sticks,” Kigozi said.

The group allegedly attacked the workers, sparking a fight in which Nalubwama’s labourers were overpowered and forced to flee.

Police said the attackers pursued the workers to their homes, where they allegedly set several houses on fire.

“The suspects are accused of burning the victims’ dwelling houses, reducing the property to ashes,” Kigozi said.

The arson attack left Moses Ssemuli and Meddy Nganda counting losses after their homes and personal belongings were destroyed.

A report of arson was filed at Bukuya Police Station, prompting officers to visit and document the scene.

Police have since recorded statements from victims and witnesses as investigations continue.

Kigozi condemned the attack and warned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands, particularly in land-related disputes.

“We advise the public to avoid acts of lawlessness and mob justice in resolving land conflicts. There are lawful avenues available, including courts and offices of Resident District Commissioners, which are open to handle such matters,” he said.

Police said efforts to trace and arrest the suspects are ongoing.