The Territorial Police in Luwero district are investigating a tragic case of mob justice that resulted in the death of a 43-year-old man, Otembi Fazil, in Butambuza village, Nyimbwa subcounty. The incident occurred on Monday, March 17, 2025, at approximately 9:00 PM, sending shockwaves through the local community.
According to preliminary reports, the deceased, a resident of Butambuza village, was allegedly chased by a mob from Mile 21 in Bombo Town Council to the scene of his death. Witnesses claim that Otembi Fazil was a known motorcycle thief who had previously stolen two motorcycles from the area and transported them to Kampala. On the night of the incident, he was reportedly sighted by local boda boda riders passing through the Mile 21 motorcycle stage. This sighting prompted an immediate uproar, leading to a violent pursuit that ended in his tragic death.
Upon receiving the report, police officers swiftly responded to the scene, where they conducted a thorough examination and documentation. The body of the deceased was conveyed to Luwero Hospital mortuary for a postmortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. A case of murder by mob has been registered, and relevant statements have been recorded from witnesses to aid in the ongoing investigation.
In a statement, ASP Twineamazima Sam, the Public Relations Officer for the Savannah Region, urged the community to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. "While we understand the frustration caused by criminal activities, mob justice is not the solution. It not only violates the law but also undermines the justice system. We encourage the public to report suspects to the police and allow the legal process to take its course."
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the dangers of vigilante justice and the need for community trust in law enforcement. Local leaders and authorities are calling for calm and cooperation as investigations continue.
The police have assured the public that further inquiries are ongoing and that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure justice is served. They have also reiterated their commitment to addressing the underlying issues of motorcycle theft and other crimes in the region.
As the community mourns this tragic loss, the message from law enforcement remains clear: violence begets violence, and the rule of law must prevail.
