Fresh allegations surrounding the deadly Bijaambiya attacks in the greater Masaka sub-region have emerged after Lt. Matanda Mabonga made explosive claims about individuals he believes were behind the violence, reportedly naming Nyonga Tony and alleging involvement by elements within the regime.
In a video circulating publicly, Mabonga reportedly made claims linking Nyonga Tony to the attacks, which triggered widespread fear and controversy in the Masaka region. He also alleged that the attacks had connections to the government, raising fresh questions about the circumstances surrounding the killings.
However, the allegations remain unverified, and no independent evidence has been presented in the information available to establish the alleged involvement of the named individuals or government officials.
The Bijaambiya attacks, which involved a series of brutal killings in Masaka and surrounding areas, became one of Uganda’s most controversial security cases, attracting national attention and raising concerns about the safety of residents.
The investigations also became politically charged following the arrest and detention of opposition Members of Parliament Muhammad Ssegirinya, who represented Kawempe North, and Allan Ssewanyana, the Makindye West legislator.
The two legislators were arrested in September 2021 and accused of involvement in murders linked to the Masaka killings. They spent nearly two years in detention as they faced criminal proceedings, while maintaining their innocence.
Their prosecution attracted criticism from opposition politicians, human rights activists and sections of the public, who questioned the handling of the investigations and the prolonged detention of the lawmakers.
Ssegirinya, who became widely known as Mr Updates, later died in January 2025 after a period of illness. His death renewed public discussion about his prolonged detention and the political controversy surrounding the case.
Mabonga’s latest statements could reopen debate about the investigations, the identities of those responsible for the attacks and whether all the circumstances surrounding the killings were adequately examined.
His allegations also raise questions about whether other possible suspects and lines of investigation received sufficient attention.
Nevertheless, the claims should be treated as allegations until independently verified through credible evidence and official investigations.
The emergence of the video is likely to reignite demands for transparency and accountability over the Bijaambiya killings, particularly from families of victims who continue to seek answers about the circumstances surrounding the attacks.
