MASAKA CITY, Uganda – Six people have been charged with various criminal offences, including illegal land occupation, theft, destruction of crops, and conspiracy to commit a felony, following investigations launched after a public outcry over an alleged land grabbing incident in Masaka City.
The Minister of Local Government, Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, announced that the arrests followed a swift intervention by government after complaints from the public. He commended the Joint Security Team, particularly the Uganda Police Force and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, for their prompt and coordinated response.
According to the minister, investigations were completed and the case files submitted to the Chief Resident State Attorney, who reviewed the evidence and sanctioned criminal charges against all six suspects.
Under Nyendo CRB 429/2026, four suspects have been charged: Nakabiri Zulaika, a 34-year-old businesswoman from Kayirikiti Cell; Bugembe Edirisa, 40; Dumba Abdul, 19; and Makumbi Abbey, 19, all residents of Misali Cell in Nyendo-Mukungwe Division.
The four are facing charges of wilfully occupying land belonging to another person without the owner’s consent, contrary to Section 89(1)(c) of the Land Act, theft, contrary to Section 237(1) of the Penal Code Act, and destroying growing crops, contrary to Section 306(c) of the Penal Code Act.
In a separate case registered under Nyendo CRB 508/2026, Jukko John, a 30-year-old boda boda rider, and Ntale Godfrey, the LC I Chairperson-elect of Misali Cell, have been charged with theft and conspiracy to commit a felony under the Penal Code Act.
All six suspects are expected to appear before the Masaka Chief Magistrate’s Court today, July 30, 2026, for plea taking.
Minister Balaam praised the Uganda Police Force, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and other investigating agencies for what he described as their diligent and professional handling of the matter.
He noted that investigations into any related offences are still ongoing and warned that anyone found culpable would face the full force of the law.
“Our commitment as a nation to protecting citizens’ property rights, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring accountability remains unwavering. No one is above the law,” the minister said.
