It has emerged that the video of a man wearing a seemingly National Resistance Movement –NRM t-shirt being beaten was not a victim of political persecution but a thief who had stolen from several people.
A video has been circulating on social media depicting a scenario where an NRM supporter was being clobbered. But police investigations as revealed by Kampala deputy police spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, indicate the man seen being clobbered by a mob was part of a gang wearing yellow t-shirts stealing from everyone they come across on Kampala streets.
“We have seen and observed a video that has been trending on social media, where a mob is seen beating someone dressed in a yellow t-shirt. While Police is still scrutinizing evidence gathered so far, it has emerged that on Wednesday January 6th, 2021, two criminal gangs commonly known as “Kifesi” and “Bigali” were mobilised in Kisenyi and given partisan politically inclined t-shirts with intention to cause chaos and mayhem,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police said the group walked from Kisenyi road towards Blue room while robbing phones and money from the public. But they met a stiff resistance a few meters away as they were approaching the junction of Kafumbe Mukasa road where they were beaten up by members of the public and some, consequently undressed.
Owoyesigyire said police from old Kampala responded and three suspects Katerega Muhammad, Ogutu Bernard and Ngubiri Charles were arrested and two damaged mobile phones recovered from them.
Police have since preferred theft charges against the trio and their case is being investigated on file number SD ref 08/06/01/202. Owoyesigyire said the trio was allegedly being commanded by one SSENTONGO, whom the force is still looking for.
“Relatedly we have received credible information that there are young people who have offered themselves as gangs for hire. Police has intensified operations and will crack down these criminally minded groups,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police urged the public to maintain peace, and calm as the country goes to the polls. Mob action has also been condemned and public is also rallied to shun it.