Zirobwe, Luwero District – Steven Musoke, popularly known as Soki, a prominent media personality, is counting heavy losses after unknown assailants raided his 3-acre banana plantation in Janda Village, Zirobwe Town Council, Luwero District, destroying all mature banana plants in what appears to be a targeted attack.
The incident, which occurred around 8:00 PM on Tuesday, was discovered by Musoke's sister, Benah Naiga, who heard unusual noises from the plantation. "I found a group of youth mercilessly cutting down the bananas. They even destroyed surveillance cameras we had installed," Naiga recounted, visibly shaken.
Family Points Finger at Longtime Land Feud
The Musoke family has accused Mohammed Sentongo, alias Chemical Ali, of masterminding the attack, reviving a bitter land dispute dating back to 2012. Robina Nabanoba, Musoke's mother, revealed that Sentongo had previously grabbed 23 acres of their family land, leaving them with only 6 acres after a protracted legal battle.
"This man has been tormenting us for years. After stealing our land, he now destroys our food source," Nabanoba lamented, showing police reports filed at Zirobwe Police Station that yielded no action.
Media Personality Speaks Out
Musoke, who uses his plantation for agricultural shows promoting food security, expressed devastation: "This wasn't just vandalism—it was an economic assassination. I've lost millions invested in this project." He suspects the attack aims to intimidate him from exposing land injustices through his media platforms.
The broadcaster revealed shocking details: "This feud has reached State House levels before. Sentongo was once arrested but mysteriously released. Now he operates with impunity."
Authorities Respond
Luweero RDC Richard Bwabye Ntulume has ordered Zirobwe Police to immediately arrest Sentongo. "Such lawlessness won't be tolerated. The perpetrators must face consequences," Ntulume declared by phone.
Broader Implications
The attack highlights:
Growing land conflicts in central Uganda
Challenges media personalities face when advocating for justice
Alleged police inaction in property disputes
As investigations continue, the Musoke family has appealed to President Museveni for intervention, while agricultural experts assess the damage estimated at tens of millions of shillings.
The incident has sparked debate about property rights protection and the safety of journalist-farmers using their platforms to highlight societal issues.
