Man Escapes Mob Justice After Land Dispute with Mother in Rukungiri

Mugabe R

Lemigio Bangirana, a 42-year-old resident of Kishonga Lower, Rubanga Parish, Buyanja Sub-County, narrowly escaped mob justice from his village mates on the morning of Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

Bangirana was accused of threatening violence against his 74-year-old mother, Restatuta Korugyendo, over a land dispute. Restatuta, a widow of the late Kurineriyo Rubondo, had her late husband’s land divided among his widow, son, and daughters. Bangirana contested the division, claiming ownership of the daughters’ land as the only son.

Restatuta had reported the threats to Buyanja Police Post and Rukungiri Central Police Station multiple times. Despite this, Bangirana was released on bond, though he continued to mistreat his mother.

On the night of Monday, July 22, 2024, Bangirana allegedly hired unknown individuals to guard Restatuta’s house and tamper with the land by digging holes and planting bananas on property belonging to his sisters and his uncle, Charles Mujuruzi.

This action enraged the residents, who sought to administer mob justice. However, they failed to apprehend Bangirana and instead arrested Gorretti Tumushabe, whom they accused of colluding with him. The residents then stormed Rukungiri Central Police Station to seek clarification on the case involving Restatuta.

Restatuta Korugyendo expressed frustration over Bangirana’s release without her knowledge and continued threats against her life.

John Barugahare, the Public Relations Officer at Rukungiri Central Police Station, consoled the residents and explained that Bangirana’s release was due to a failure to properly follow up on the case file.

Emmy Agaba Rubondo, Chairperson of LC3 Buyanja Sub-County, criticized the police for mishandling the case and endangering Restatuta’s life.

Following this, the police investigated further and discovered missing complaint statements at the State Attorney’s office. Gorretti Tumushabe was detained, a warrant of arrest was issued for Lemigio Bangirana, and a new criminal file (No. CRB 848/2024) was opened against him.