UGANDA, Mukono | Real Muloodi News | On the afternoon of Friday 24th May, 2024, the Anti-Corruption Unit in collaboration with the Uganda Police arraigned 14 suspects before the Mukono Chief Magistrates Court on charges related to the forceful entry of land.
The suspects face accusations of forcible entry, criminal trespass, malicious damage, and conspiracy to commit a felony.
The suspects are believed to have acted in concert to violently take over the land, causing significant property damage.
Between May 17 and May 21, 2024, the accused, along with others still at large, allegedly entered land on Block 189, Plot 888 in Lwanyonyi, Mukono.
The forceful entry was reported to be violent, involving the grading of land, and destruction of crops, trees, and water pipes. The land in question belongs to the estate of the late Israel Banoba.
Kavambere Rose, one of the individuals claiming part of the disputed land, had previously been sued by the late Banoba in Civil Suit 66/2013.
The court ruled that Rose was a trespasser on the land. Despite this ruling, recent events have escalated tensions over land ownership.
The spokesperson for the Anti-Corruption Unit emphasised the need for lawful conduct regarding land disputes.
“This arraignment sends a clear message that forceful entry and destruction of property will not be tolerated,” they stated.
A representative from the Uganda Police added, “We are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that those responsible for criminal activities are held accountable.”
Residents have expressed concerns about the impact of land disputes on community stability. One resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, said, “These conflicts create a lot of tension and uncertainty. We hope the authorities can resolve this matter swiftly.”
The Mukono Chief Magistrates Court will continue to hear the case, with investigations ongoing to identify and apprehend additional suspects involved in the forceful entry of land. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
They are furthermore calling on the community to cooperate with law enforcement to prevent further violence and destruction related to land disputes.
The case of the late Israel Banoba and Kavambere Rose is part of a longer history of land disputes in the region.
Previous court rulings, such as Civil Suit 66/2013, have attempted to clarify ownership but have not always prevented further conflicts.
The Ugandan government has been working on reforms to address land disputes, including strengthening legal processes and improving documentation. The involvement of the Anti-Corruption Unit in this case reflects ongoing efforts to combat illegal land activities.
Public awareness campaigns are being considered to educate landowners about their rights and the legal avenues available for dispute resolution.
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