By Spy Uganda
In a collaborative effort, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, Uganda Police, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions have arraigned eight suspects before the Entebbe Magistrates Court on charges related to land grabbing. The charges include forcible entry, forcible detainer, malicious damage to property, and theft. The suspects have been remanded until February 28, 2025.
The individuals charged are Sserungaya Alex Mukisa, Kajubi Peter, Ddungu Henry, Nnaku Ramanthan, Kaweesi Godfrey, Ngesa Robert, Mukiibi Asuman, and Mugweri Joseph. Authorities are still searching for additional suspects who remain at large.
On January 21, 2025, the accused unlawfully entered a 68-acre plot of land located on Block 428, Plot 192 (formerly Plot 22), owned by Professor Eleanor Maxine Ankrah. During the intrusion, they destroyed 18 acres of trees and crops and caused significant property damage.
The suspects allegedly acted under the directives of certain bibanja (tenant) holders, including Lutaaya William, Nnalongo Kaita Bakumba Winfred, Kalenzo Edward, Osowa Anthony, and Robert Kayigwa. These individuals had previously entered into a consent agreement in the High Court, allowing the complainant to allocate 18 acres among them.
However, before the agreed-upon allocation could take place, a group led by Ssebagula Aaron—a known land grabber and former convict—illegally invaded the land on February 8 and 9, 2025. The invaders cut down trees and crops, which they subsequently sold to unidentified buyers.
Following swift intervention by State House Anti Corruption Unit, several of the perpetrators were apprehended. Investigations are ongoing to locate and arrest Ssebagula Aaron and his accomplices, ensuring justice is served.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling land-related fraud and protecting legitimate landowners from unlawful evictions and destruction of property. Further legal proceedings are expected as the case develops.
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