In the wake of the brutal mob killing of Police Constable Suleiman Chemonges, security officials in Ibanda District have launched a community sensitization campaign to promote community policing and discourage mob justice.
Chemonges was lynched on April 6, 2025, in Kyembogo Village during the burial of remand prisoner Lazarus Kahangire, who had died while in custody at Nyabuhikye Prison.
The officer, who had been deployed to provide security at the funeral, was attacked by mourners who accused him of being involved in Kahangire’s arrest and subsequent death.
Despite firing warning shots in an attempt to defend himself, Chemonges was overpowered and beaten to death by the mob.
The incident has been widely condemned by both police and prison authorities.
Following the killing, 40 suspects were arrested. However, reports indicate that many residents reportedly fled their homes fearing arrest.
In response, the police, local leaders, and the District Security Committee have been working together to encourage residents who fled to return home and to restore calm within the community.
Political Commissar Ubaldo Bamunoba visited the scene of the incident to assess the situation firsthand and to gather insights aimed at easing tensions.
He also chaired a meeting with the District Security Committee, local leadership, and police officials to review the incident and explore ways to strengthen trust between law enforcement and the community.
Bamunoba took the opportunity to sensitize the public about the dangers of mob justice and the importance of community policing as a means of fostering cooperation and preventing violence.
Authorities say the community engagement efforts will continue as investigations progress and efforts to rebuild public confidence in law enforcement remain a top priority.
“The community has been mobilized for a sensitization program aimed at reducing fear and promoting peace. The program focused on the effects of mob justice and the importance of community policing,” he added.
He added that they have also strengthened the community policing approach in Ibanda to restore trust and ensure public safety as part of a broader initiative to improve police-community relations and address security concerns in the district.
