Authorities in eastern Uganda have launched a criminal investigation after unknown individuals reportedly attempted to exhume a man’s body just hours after his burial, sparking concern among residents over suspected ritual practices.
The incident took place in Bukanga Zone, Namunyingi Parish in Kamuli District, where Steven Waiswa had been buried on Friday following a traditional funeral at his ancestral home. Waiswa had died earlier after being subjected to mob justice over unverified claims linking him to a murder committed two months ago.
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According to family members, the grave was found disturbed during a post-burial cultural ceremony held in the early hours of Saturday morning. Mercy Nampina, a relative of the deceased, said the family returned to the burial site at around 2:00am for a traditional ghost-chasing ritual when they noticed suspicious activity nearby.
“We heard footsteps coming from the banana plantation,” Ms Nampina said. “When we got closer, the suspects ran off. We found the grave partially dug up, with the body’s legs exposed.”
While it remains unclear whether any body parts were removed, the family fears the motive could be linked to ritual sacrifice—an issue that has previously troubled the region.
Police have since cordoned off the area and opened investigations into the incident. Busoga North police spokesperson Michael Kasadha condemned the act, saying it violates the dignity of the deceased and carries serious legal penalties.
“It is a criminal offence to tamper with graves or disturb the peace of the dead,” Mr Kasadha said. “We are committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible.”
Local leaders say this is not the first time such an incident has occurred in the area. Badru Bamuwa, the Local Council Chairperson for Namunyingi Parish, revealed it was the fourth attempted exhumation reported in the past two years.
“We cannot allow these inhumane and unlawful acts to continue,” Mr Bamuwa said. “As a community, we must remain alert and support the police in bringing these culprits to justice.”
The case has reignited concerns over mob justice and suspected ritual crime in Uganda, particularly in rural communities where traditional beliefs remain widespread. Human rights groups continue to call for stronger public awareness campaigns and improved access to justice as a way of tackling these issues.
Police and local authorities have appealed for calm, assuring residents that efforts are underway to ensure those behind the attempted exhumation are held accountable.
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