Six suspects have been formally charged in connection with a disputed land case in Masaka City following heightened public concern that triggered a coordinated security response.
Local Government Minister Balaam Ateenyi confirmed the arrests, stating that investigations were fast-tracked after residents raised alarm over alleged illegal land occupation and related offences in Nyendo-Mukungwe Division.
“Following our intervention after the public outcry in Masaka City, six suspects were arrested and investigations were immediately commenced and expedited,” Ateenyi said.
He credited the Joint Security Team, including the Uganda Police Force and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, for what he described as a “swift, coordinated, and professional response.”
According to official records under Nyendo CRB 429/2026, four suspects—Nakabiri Zulaika, Bugembe Edirisa, Dumba Abdul, and Makumbi Abbey—face multiple charges. These include wilful occupation of land without the owner’s consent, theft, and destruction of growing crops.
Prosecutors allege the group unlawfully took over private land and caused damage to property during the disputed occupation.
In a separate file, Nyendo CRB 508/2026, two additional suspects—Jukko John and Ntale Godfrey—have been charged with theft and conspiracy to commit a felony.
Authorities claim the offences were part of a broader scheme linked to the same dispute.
The case files were reviewed by the Chief Resident State Attorney, who sanctioned the charges after assessing the evidence compiled by investigators.
All six suspects are expected to appear before the Masaka Chief Magistrate’s Court for plea taking.
Ateenyi reaffirmed the government’s stance on land protection and accountability, warning that further arrests could follow as investigations continue.
“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,” he said.
The developments come amid growing scrutiny over land-related conflicts in parts of Uganda, where disputes have increasingly drawn public attention and, in some cases, escalated into legal and security concerns