On Thursday, May 16, 2024, local police disclosed that they are actively investigating a disturbing incident where a mob in a village lynched a resident. The victim was accused of fatally assaulting a fellow villager during a dispute over unpaid wages.
Reports indicate that Nelson Niwatuha, also known as Ndyagabondo, aged 25 and residing in Muyanje Cell, Bwambara parish, was hired by a local resident named Nsheija to work in his garden at Omukayembe trading center. Niwatuha enlisted the help of a colleague, Julius Beinomugisha Kato, aged 40, to assist in completing the job. Both individuals were known as casual laborers in the area.
According to a statement provided by Elly Maate, the spokesperson for the Kigezi Police region, on May 14, 2024, Niwatuha and Beinomugisha commenced their work. However, Niwatuha interrupted the task multiple times to indulge in rounds of alcohol.
Maate explained that upon completion of the work, Beinomugisha requested payment from Niwatuha. However, Niwatuha refused, claiming they had already spent the money on alcohol during their working hours and afterward.
The disagreement escalated into a physical altercation, resulting in Niwatula fatally striking Beinomugisha with his fists.
Subsequently, enraged residents witnessing the confrontation turned their fury toward Niwatuha, assaulting him in retaliation. He was severely beaten and left unconscious. Local leaders intervened, rushing Niwatuha to Bwambara Health III facility for medical attention. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries.
Caleb Tumwekwasize, the LC1 chairperson, promptly notified the authorities, leading to a police investigation at the scene. Eyewitnesses provided statements as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Elly Maate strongly condemned the vigilante justice enacted by the residents, emphasizing that those involved in the killing would face legal consequences. He criticized the act of consuming alcohol while working and reiterated the importance of adhering to the law by reporting incidents to the police rather than resorting to violence.
Efforts to apprehend the suspects involved in the retaliatory attack are underway, as the police continue their search for justice in this tragic incident.
