Tuesday, February 18, 2025
HomeCrimeSecurity Guards Arrested for Shooting at Minister on Disputed Land

Security Guards Arrested for Shooting at Minister on Disputed Land

Hoima, Uganda – Five security guards have been arrested for allegedly shooting at the Minister of State for Lands, Dr Sam Mayanja, in Hoima district last week.

The guards, who were protecting contested land claimed by local tycoon Fred Mugamba, fired several shots in the air as the minister approached the property with officials last Thursday.

The arrested men have been identified as Vincent Omara, 28, Vincent Tusingwire, 26, Cleophas Kansiime, 22, Gad Mairiho, 42, and Robert Abekani, 25. They are employed by Pyramid Security Group and were stationed on an 810-hectare plot of land claimed by over 2,000 residents of nearby villages.

Police spokesperson Julius Hakiza said the suspects are being held at Hoima Central Police Station on charges of threatening violence. The guns used in the shooting have been confiscated as evidence.

Residents say their families have lived on the disputed land since the 1940s, and they petitioned the minister over Mugamba trying to forcefully evict them. Mugamba, who resides elsewhere, claims legal ownership.

When Dr Mayanja attempted to visit the property to investigate, the guards opened fire before fleeing. The minister, accompanied by local officials, directed police to arrest them.

The security company nor Mugamba have commented on the situation. Police say they have submitted the case to prosecutors and are awaiting legal advice on further charges.

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