Police in Kwania District are investigating a suspected murder by mob, following the death of 25-year-old Atim Ronald, a resident of Anywar village, Lwal parish, Atongtidi Sub-County.
The incident, reported by clan chief Ocen Isaac, unfolded on the evening of March 10th, 2025.
According to Police spokesperson PJ Okema of the North Kyoga region, preliminary investigations suggest Atim was suspected of stealing a bicycle, mattress, and a Sacco group’s cash box.
He allegedly escalated his actions by attacking his family with a panga, threatening them with violence. When they resisted, he turned his aggression towards passersby on the road.
The situation spiraled out of control when Atim stopped three unidentified men on a motorcycle, threatening them with his weapon. A scuffle ensued, attracting a crowd of villagers. The gathering quickly turned into a mob, who subjected Atim to a severe beating. He collapsed and died at the scene, and the crowd dispersed.
A case file has been registered, and investigations are ongoing. The scene of the crime is to be examined, and a post-mortem examination is pending. Preliminary findings reveal that Atim had recently been released from prison, having served a seven-month sentence for theft.
The police are urging individuals to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. They have also encouraged those engaged in criminal activities to seek rehabilitation and access government programs, such as PDM, Emyooga, and youth livelihood initiatives, to build a better future. “Otherwise, we are bound to lose more,” stated PJ Okema.