By BUATRE George
ADJUMANI — Police in the North West Nile Region have launched investigations into a mob justice incident that left a 46-year-old man dead after he was accused of stealing a cow and calf in Djaipi Sub-county, Adjumani District.
The deceased has been identified as Poni Moses, also known as Gayitano, a resident of Forua Cell in ATC, Adjumani District.
According to police, the incident occurred on May 5, 2026, at about 6:00am in Andiyo area, where Moses and another unidentified man were reportedly intercepted by an angry mob on allegations of cattle theft.
North West Nile regional police spokesperson SP Collins Asea said the two suspects were accused of stealing a cow and its calf before residents descended on them.
“The suspects were intercepted by members of the community who alleged that they had stolen a cow and calf. During the confrontation, the mob attacked them, but one suspect managed to escape,” Asea said.
Police officers later intervened and rescued Moses from the crowd before rushing him to Adjumani General Hospital for treatment. However, he succumbed to severe injuries at around 6:00pm the same day.
A murder case has since been registered at Adjumani Central Police Station under ADJ CRB 240/2026 as investigations into the mob action continue.
Police said witness statements have already been recorded, while a postmortem examination was conducted at Adjumani General Mortuary by Dr Opio Tonny. Blood samples were also collected from the deceased for forensic analysis.
The suspected stolen cow and calf are currently being held at Baratuku Police Post pending identification and handover to the rightful owner.
Asea said security agencies are actively hunting for the second suspect who escaped during the chaos, adding that detectives are also pursuing individuals who participated in the fatal assault.
The regional police spokesperson condemned acts of mob justice, warning residents against taking the law into their own hands.
“We urge members of the public to desist from mob justice and instead report suspected criminals to the relevant authorities for lawful handling,” Asea said.
He further cautioned the public against engaging in criminal activities, particularly livestock theft, which remains a growing concern in some parts of the region.
“Stealing is a serious criminal offence. Members of the community are encouraged to seek lawful means of livelihood and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in fighting crime,” he added.
Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing and more updates will be provided as inquiries progress.
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