Police in Nyendo are detaining three individuals accused of participating in a violent demolition of homes in Misaali Village, located in Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, Masaka City. The incident stems from an ongoing land conflict that has left local residents alarmed and fearful.
According to reports, at around 2 a.m. on June 9, a group of approximately 30 men—armed with machetes and hammers—stormed the village. They were allegedly hired by Isaac Mulema, who claims to be the rightful owner of the disputed land.
“They began tearing down our homes, removing doors and windows, and loading them into a truck. It was terrifying,” recounted Ms. Zulaikah Nakabiri, one of the affected residents.
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Nakabiri said she was alerted by a phone call informing her that her home was under attack. When she arrived, she found chaos, but neighbors responded quickly to help.
Community members managed to apprehend three of the assailants while the rest fled. The group also seized a coaster bus with registration number UAR 420M, which was later identified as belonging to White Angels Schools in Kampala.
Nakabiri accused Mulema of previous intimidation attempts, including one incident where armed individuals reportedly fired warning shots to frighten residents off the land.
Seven houses were destroyed in the latest assault, prompting locals to demand government intervention.
“We are tired of being harassed. These people act with impunity, and the authorities seem powerless,” Nakabiri added.
Another victim, Mr. Samuel Musajimaana, said he had just vacated his rental home when he learned it had been demolished. “Even the roof and windows were stolen,” he said.
One of the suspects in custody, identified as coaster driver Richard Kasujja, claimed he had no knowledge of the operation’s purpose. “I was told we were attending a funeral. Next thing I knew, people were attacking the vehicle,” he explained.
The three suspects remain detained at Nyendo Police Station, and the impounded vehicle is under police custody. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and they are pursuing the remaining suspects.
Residents are appealing to the government to take decisive action against illegal land evictions and protect communities from violent land grabbers.
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