Crime is creeping deeper into Mukono, and last night’s attack is a chilling reminder.
A fuel pump attendant, 22-year-old Emanuel Odongo, was hacked to death, while a local teacher, identified as Samuel, barely escaped with his life.
The violent assault in Nabuti Cell, Mukono Central Division, has left the community shaken and demanding action.
A Fatal Night for Odongo
Odongo worked at a nearby petrol station, trying to earn a living. His lifeless body was discovered in a water drainage system. The motive? Locals suspect it was money.
“He had cash on him, that’s why they targeted him,” one resident speculated, grief-stricken over the loss of a hardworking young man.
Is the “Mukono 11” Gang to Blame?
Residents aren’t just mourning; they’re outraged. Many blame the notorious “Mukono 11” gang, accused of terrorizing the area with unchecked violence.
“They’re behind most of this,” said Lubimbi Godfrey, a frustrated resident. “They operate everywhere, and the police do nothing.”
The growing insecurity has fueled anger, with locals calling out authorities for ignoring rampant crime. Late-night gambling and alcohol-fueled rowdiness are making things worse.
“The authorities aren’t doing enough,” said Lawrence Wamala. “Gambling and drinking fuel crime, and we can’t even sleep at night.”
Related: Mukono Factory Workers Targeted by Gangs in Disturbing Rape Surge
Community Safety Efforts Falling Apart
Attempts to fund local security measures have failed. Residents have refused to contribute, leaving the neighborhood vulnerable.
Twahir Isabirye, the Nabuti Cell defense secretary, pointed fingers at both the community and businesses.
“People don’t want to chip in, and even the petrol station didn’t do enough to protect its worker.”
Teacher Attacked—But a Stroke of Luck Saves Him
The attackers didn’t stop at Odongo. Samuel, a local teacher, was next. He was brutally attacked but managed to escape when fate intervened—a passing car’s headlights forced the assailants to flee.
“I thought I was done for,” Samuel recalled. “Then a car came, and they ran off.”
Police Investigations Underway
Mukono Police have transported Odongo’s body to Mulago Mortuary for a post-mortem. While investigations continue, no official statement has been released about his cause of death.
The question remains: how many more lives will be lost before serious action is taken?
