RUBIRIZI, UGANDA – Ndekye Town Council in Rubirizi District is gripped by tension following explosive witchcraft allegations that have led to public accusations, a prior arrest, and fears of mob justice.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The incident, which came to light during a community policing meeting on Monday in Ryeru 1 Village, centers on accusations that a resident, Rubasimbira Didas, 60, bewitched a fellow villager, Saturday Vincent, 22.
According to the Local Council One (LC1) Chairperson for Ryeru 1 Village, Mr. Alex Bob, suspicion against Rubasimbira began after the sudden death of a resident last month.
“The deceased was suffering from severe headaches and was rushed to the hospital, but the doctors confirmed he had no clear illness,” Mr. Bob stated.
The unexplained death strengthened local beliefs that Rubasimbira caused it through witchcraft, leading to his arrest and subsequent release on police bond as investigations continue.
Kabunjero Everline, the Rubirizi Town Council Women’s League Chairperson and a neighbour to the suspect, claimed that Rubasimbira has a history of such allegations.
She revealed that his prior banishment from Nyabubare in Bushenyi District for similar reasons has further fueled local anxieties.
Amid the rising tensions, security personnel have intervened. Twesigye Caleb, the Community Liaison Officer for Rubirizi Police, urged for calm and warned the community against mob justice.
“We have called for peace and reminded the community that such accusations must be investigated through lawful means. We urge residents to remain calm and allow law enforcement to handle the matter professionally, rather than taking the law into their own hands,” Twesigye said.
As police continue their investigations, the incident has highlighted the delicate balance between traditional beliefs and the rule of law in the community.
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