45 held over mob violence

By Moses Nampala in Kamuli THE Police in Kamuli have arrested 45 people in connection with violence and causing malicious damage in the district.They allegedly demolished three houses and slashed down two hectares of a cassava garden.Kamuli district Police commander Fred Ssekiwere said the suspects were arrested from Kyamatende village in Nabuwigulu sub-county.Police said the suspects blamed their victim, Bakaali Naku, of being responsible for the death of his neighbour, Stephen Musaana, who died a week ago.“We have been told that the suspects alleged that Bakaali killed Musaana using witchcraft,” Ssekiwere said.He told the New vision on Tuesday that the suspects would be charged with causing malicious damage.Residents told the Police that Musaana was attacked by a terminal disease in April. They said his condition worsened despite getting all the possible medical care.He was bedridden prior to his death.The suspects are said to have attacked Bakaali in a bid to avenge Musaana’s death. Bakaali and his family managed to escape unhurt. The mob, armed with deadly objects on failing to trace Bakaali, reportedly set his houses ablaze. Witnesses said apart from destroying Bakaali’s crops, the mob also stole and slaughtered one of his cows. Ends