Police in Masaka City are holding a businessman and two private security guards over the death of a 22-year-old man who was suspected of attempted theft in Kidda Village, Nyendo-Mukungwe Division.
The deceased, identified as Mukasa, 22, is reported to have been assaulted on Wednesday evening by two guards, Thomas Olinga, 22, and Sam Ongeyi, 36, who were attached to Securian Security Company. The guards had been hired by businessman Godfrey Mayanja to provide security at his coffee plantation.
According to eyewitnesses, Mukasa was accused of attempting to steal coffee from the plantation when the guards confronted him. The situation escalated, and the two guards allegedly beat him repeatedly using heavy sticks. Residents say the assault continued until Mukasa sustained fatal injuries.
Community members who arrived at the scene described the incident as disturbing, noting that the victim was known in the area and had been struggling with mental health challenges. His death sparked anger among residents, some of whom retaliated by destroying parts of the businessman’s coffee plantation in protest.
Local leaders, including Abudu Kasozi, the youth chairperson, and Derrick Kalyango, a village security official from Lwanyi, said there had been prior complaints about the conduct of the security personnel. Kalyango further claimed he attempted to intervene during the assault but was unable to stop the guards.
Following the incident, police from Masaka Central Police Station intercepted Mayanja and the two guards as they allegedly attempted to leave the area.
The Southern Regional Police Spokesperson, Afande Twaha Kasirye, confirmed their arrest, stating that the trio is in custody as investigations continue.
He urged the public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, warning that acts of retaliation could interfere with ongoing investigations and due legal process.
Police say the suspects will be charged with murder once investigations are complete.
