Woman set on fire over missing pig
The interrogation quickly escalated into an inferno of violence as the mob resorted to burning the helpless woman alive, purportedly in pursuit of information regarding a missing pig.
The tranquility of Namuzikiza Village, Watuba Parish, Kikandwa Subcounty in Mityana District was shattered on April 28 as a horrifying incident of aggravated torture unfolded, leaving the community in shock and disbelief.
The victim, identified as Kolodina Muhirwe, a 29-year-old bar attendant and resident of the same area, was subjected to unspeakable brutality allegedly at the hands of her ex-husband, James Lukiiko, and several accomplices.
The events leading to the heinous act paint a grim picture of domestic discord and vigilante justice gone awry.
Muhirwe's near-tragic ordeal began when she ventured into her ex-husband's property to gather food from her abandoned gardens and banana plantation.
The decision to enter what was once her marital home proved fateful, as Lukiiko, in conjunction with his son Brian Lwabye, and aided by James Kalanzi, the area defense officer of Namuzikiza village, descended upon her with accusations of theft.
In a chilling display of mob mentality, the victim was bound and mercilessly interrogated amidst a crowd that had gathered, including Betty Namusoke, who purportedly brought a rope to restrain Muhirwe.
The interrogation quickly escalated into an inferno of violence as the mob resorted to burning the helpless woman alive, purportedly in pursuit of information regarding a missing pig.
The gruesome spectacle unfolded within the confines of the area Chairperson Steven Kiwanuka's residence, further amplifying the shock and horror experienced by witnesses.
Despite the barbarity of the assault, Muhirwe's resilience persevered as a compassionate boda boda cyclist rescued and transported her to safety.
The ghastly episode, captured on amateur cameras and widely shared on social media, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
In the wake of the incident, authorities swiftly intervened, apprehending seven suspects, including George Kiwanuka, James Lukiiko, George Kezimbira, Brian Lwabye, and Betty Namusoke.
Wamala Region Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala affirmed police’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice and ensuring accountability for acts of torture.
Muhirwe, meanwhile, has been provided with medical attention at Namayumba Health Centre IV, where her injuries are being tended to as she grapples with the physical and psychological scars of her harrowing ordeal.
As investigations into the matter proceed, the harrowing events of April 28 serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of human decency and the imperative of combating impunity in all its forms.
In a society governed by the rule of law, such atrocities must be met with unequivocal condemnation and swift, decisive action to safeguard the rights and dignity of all citizens.
