Violence Erupts in Naguru!! Over 70 Armed Men Attack in Land Dispute
Fear and chaos filled the streets of Naguru’s Kyiwalimu Zone early Friday morning when over 70 armed men attacked the area in a violent land dispute. The raid happened around 1:30 am, with the attackers carrying pangas, hoes, and other tools. At least ten residents were injured, and several homes were damaged in the surprise attack, leaving the community shaken.
The violence is linked to a long-standing land conflict over Plot 3, Naguru Close, and Plot 54A, Naguru Drive. Both ISBAT University and the Misabahu Din Muslim Community claim ownership of the land, which is currently occupied by more than 50 squatters. The squatters have refused to leave until they are properly compensated.
Ahmed Matovu, the chairperson of Kyiwalimu Zone, described the raid as a planned and illegal eviction. “This was a coordinated attack to evict us illegally,” he said. “There was no court order, and the authorities had already intervened.”
Earlier this year, State Minister for Lands Sam Mayanja got involved after a report by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit revealed that the land title held by the Misabahu Din Muslim Community was issued illegally by the Kampala District Land Board. As a result, the title was canceled, and the land was declared to belong to ISBAT University under the Uganda Land Commission.
The land case is currently before court, with a ruling expected on the 30th of this month. Matovu said the attack happened just after the Muslim community took the issue to court again, possibly to delay eviction or demand compensation.
Regional Police Commander Jonhan Musinguzi confirmed that four suspects were arrested following the attack. “The police responded quickly and worked with the community to protect those affected. The suspects were almost attacked by the crowd, but we arrived in time,” he said. The suspects are now receiving treatment at Mulago Hospital.
Police have increased patrols in the area to prevent more violence, and the Criminal Investigations Department is carrying out further inquiries to identify those behind the planning of the raid. Musinguzi warned that all land disputes must be handled through legal means. “We cannot allow people to take the law into their own hands,” he said.
As the community recovers, Matovu has appealed to President Museveni to step in and help protect the rights and safety of residents. “This is not just a matter of land,” he said, “It’s about protecting people’s lives and homes.”
The situation in Naguru remains tense, with many hoping for a peaceful resolution before the court delivers its verdict later this month.
