By Our Reporter
In a dramatic twist to a long-running land dispute in Ibanda District, two men who allegedly masqueraded as soldiers to intimidate villagers have been arraigned and remanded by the Chief Magistrates Court.
Joseph Mucunguzi, alias Munde, and Champion Julius stand accused of illegally wearing UPDF military uniforms to threaten residents of Kyembogo village, Karangara ward, in a bid to forcefully evict them from contested land. The uniforms, worn without permission, were reportedly used to instill fear and silence resistance—an act that violates Section 152(1) of the Penal Code Act.
The duo, believed to be working in coordination with others still at large, carried out these acts to pave the way for Mbabazi Vincent, who is accused of fraudulently acquiring a land title. Residents say the intimidation campaign has left the community in fear for months.
The accused have been remanded until June 11, 2025, as investigations continue and a manhunt for their accomplices intensifies.
The prosecution was spearheaded by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, in partnership with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)—highlighting a growing crackdown on land grabbing cartels that exploit intimidation and impersonation tactics.
Related Case in Mukono: Defiant Land Grabbers Convicted
Meanwhile, in Nakifuma Magistrates Court, Nanfuka Christine and Nasejje Halima were convicted for defying a court order that granted Zaina Nansereko rightful access to her land in Nkonge Village, Mukono District. The two, along with a third suspect still undergoing trial, repeatedly harassed the victim and even hired individuals to block her from accessing the land.
Both convicts were sentenced to community service and fines, with a default custodial sentence of one year if they fail to comply.
These cases are part of a broader offensive led by the Anti-Corruption Unit to dismantle criminal networks abusing power, violating property rights, and defying court rulings.
Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any similar abuses involving impersonation, land fraud, or harassment.