Tragedy struck Budini Nyanza Zone in Kaliro Town Council early Monday, December 9, 2024, when a 64-year-old man, his wife, and their son were killed in an arson attack linked to a long-standing land dispute.
The victims have been identified as Muhammad Kaiga, 64; his wife, whose identity was not readily available to the media; and their son, Amuza Swagga, 26.According to reports, an angry mob attacked their home, locked the family inside, and set it on fire.
Four suspects have been arrested by police in connection with the attack. Among them are Abdu Wangule, 62, the Local Council I Chairman of Budini Nyanza Zone, and residents Simon Waiswa, 40; Willy Kiige, 64; and Isma Njagi, 20.Initial investigations indicate the conflict began earlier that morning when Kaiga instructed Swagga to slash grass in a contested mango garden. Ownership of the garden has been disputed for years.
This act reportedly angered some residents, who attacked Swagga while he worked. Fleeing the violence, Swagga sought refuge at his father’s home.However, the mob pursued him, stormed the house, and set it ablaze with the family inside.Police officers from Kaliro Central Police Station, led by the District Police Commander, responded promptly to the scene.
Despite their efforts to extinguish the fire, the three family members had already perished. Their bodies were taken to Bumanya Health Centre IV mortuary for postmortem examinations.Authorities have linked the incident to the region’s frequent land disputes. The police are continuing investigations to uncover further details and assess the suspects’ involvement.
ASP Kasadha Michael, Regional Police Spokesperson for Busoga North, condemned the attack as an act of barbaric mob justice.He assured the public that the perpetrators would face the full force of the law and reiterated the importance of resolving conflicts through legal means.The tragedy has left the community in shock and mourning, with calls for justice and stronger measures to prevent similar incidents.
