It's a Dog's Life for Bukomansimbi Coffee Thief

David Ssembalirwa's left hand was severed during the ordeal after he trespassed into Martin Lubega's coffee plantation on the night of November 28, 2024, alongside an accomplice.

A 31-year-old man from Makukulu Village in Bukomansimbi's Kitanda Sub-county escaped with his life after being caught stealing coffee berries but not his hand.

David Ssembalirwa's left hand was severed during the ordeal after he trespassed into Martin Lubega's coffee plantation on the night of November 28, 2024, alongside an accomplice.

The duo reportedly began stripping unripe coffee berries with the intent to sell them when Lubega, who was patrolling his farm at the time, discovered them.

"At that time, I was monitoring my coffee gardens, and that’s when I found Ssembalirwa and his colleague harvesting my unripe coffee," Lubega recounted.

Struggle and Injuries

Lubega claimed the two intruders attempted to confront him with sticks, forcing him to raise an alarm. While Ssembalirwa's accomplice fled, a struggle ensued between Lubega and Ssembalirwa.

Lubega allegedly used a machete in self-defense, severing Ssembalirwa’s hand.

Injured, Ssembalirwa managed to flee and sought medical attention, where authorities later apprehended him. He is currently in custody at Bukomansimbi Police Station.

Police have also arrested Lubega, charging him with taking the law into his own hands.

But Lubega defended his actions, stating: "Thieves have turned my gardens into theirs. Cutting off Ssembalirwa’s hand was an act of self-defense. I am tired of these thefts."

He appealed to the government and security agencies to address the rampant coffee thefts in the district, which have left many farmers frustrated.

On the other hand, Ssembalirwa admitted to the theft but condemned Lubega’s violent response.

"I cannot deny stealing his coffee, but he had no right to beat me and cut me with a panga. I demand justice and compensation for my medical treatment," Ssembalirwa said.

Rising Cases of Coffee Theft

The incident highlights the growing problem of coffee theft in Bukomansimbi, where farmers often find their plantations stripped bare.

Some have accused local security personnel of complicity, claiming suspects are frequently released under dubious circumstances.

Coffee has become a hot topic in Buganda, with the kingdom running a fully-fledged campaign that encourages its subjects to grow the cash crop for improved livelihood.

Amid the government's pushback through a controversial rationalisation of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority, the cash crop continues to gain currency with coffee aroma wafting across the country.

While some toil to earn from coffee, some like Ssembalirwa seek the shortcut. But like he found out, such shortcuts can be too expensive.

Masaka Regional Police Spokesperson, Twaha Kasirye, confirmed the incident and condemned Lubega’s use of excessive force.

"We urge residents to rely on law enforcement to handle crimes and avoid taking matters into their own hands," Kasirye said.

The case has drawn attention to the need for better security measures to protect farmers and their livelihoods while ensuring justice for all parties involved.