Mob Justice: Suspected Motorcycle Thief Lynched in Nakaloke

MBALE CITY – A 35-year-old man, suspected to be part of a notorious motorcycle theft gang operating in the Busoga, Bugisu, and neighboring regions, was lynched by an angry mob in Nakaloke Ward, Mbale City, on Tuesday morning.  

The deceased, identified as Jamiru Mukose, a motorcycle mechanic and resident of Nabitenende Cell, was accused of stealing motorcycles before locals took the law into their own hands.

 According to reports, police officers from Kaliro District, working with Mbale Northern Division officers, had tracked Mukose to his home following allegations of motorcycle theft.  

Rogers Taitika, the Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed that Mukose fled upon seeing the police. A search of his house led to the recovery of a stolen motorcycle (Registration No. UEZ 962J, Bajaj, red in color), six motorcycle batteries, and several number plates suspected to be from stolen bikes.  
 
About 40 minutes after the police search, community members alerted authorities that a mob had captured Mukose and was beating him. By the time officers arrived, the suspect had already been lynched.  

"The deceased had multiple injuries on the head and hands, suggesting he was brutally attacked," Taitika said. "The body has been taken to Mbale City Mortuary for a postmortem, while sticks and stones used in the attack have been recovered as exhibits."  

Police have not yet made any arrests in connection with the mob action but have launched investigations. Taitika condemned the act of vigilantism, urging the public to allow law enforcement to handle suspects.  

"Mob justice is a crime, and those who participate in such acts will face the law," he warned. "We understand the frustration over theft, but taking a life is not the solution."  

Local council chairman Kadambule Faizo reported that Mukose had long been suspected of involvement in motorcycle thefts, fueling residents' anger.  

Motorcycle (boda boda) theft has been a persistent problem in the region, with criminals often targeting riders and dismantling bikes for parts.