By Our Reporter
The disturbing rise in mob justice across Uganda took another grim turn on Sunday with the killing of 28-year-old Simon Ayemun, also known as “Ebuking,” in Alelesi Village, Pallisa District.
Ayemun was lynched by an irate crowd after he was allegedly caught stealing a savings box belonging to a local community group. According to the police, the box, which reportedly held Shs2.5 million, was tied to a village savings initiative and belonged to a resident, Ms. Stella Addo.
Authorities say Ayemun was found with the box in his possession after reportedly breaking into a home. As news of the theft spread, residents mobilized quickly, chasing him down and beating him to death using sticks and stones before police could intervene. When officers arrived, Ayemun was already dead. The damaged box was recovered, but the cash was missing.
No arrests have been made in connection to the killing. According to Pallisa Police spokesperson Wilfred Kyempasa, investigations are ongoing. He also noted that Ayemun had a record of prior criminal activity, though stressed that his past did not justify the mob’s actions.
This incident adds to a growing pattern of extrajudicial violence sweeping through Uganda. The Bukedi North region, where Pallisa lies, has seen a marked rise in such cases. At least 10 mob-related killings were recorded in March and April alone, reflecting a deepening frustration with the country’s formal justice mechanisms.
Uganda’s 2024 crime report revealed 1,016 mob killings across the country — a staggering figure that has alarmed both law enforcement and human rights groups.
Experts say the rise in vigilante justice reflects a dangerous erosion of public confidence in the police and judiciary. “Mob justice is not a solution. It undermines rule of law and opens the door to grievous miscarriages of justice,” said a representative from a local human rights organization.
Local leaders in Alelesi Village echoed similar concerns. LC1 Chairperson Mr. Gerefansio Opio condemned the act, urging residents to report crimes to authorities rather than taking matters into their own hands. “We must resist the temptation to deliver instant justice. What happened to Simon Ayemun is tragic and unacceptable,” he said.
The body of Ayemun was transported to Pallisa Hospital for a postmortem examination. As police continue their investigation, the incident serves as yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to address both crime and public trust in Uganda’s justice system.
