By Spy Uganda
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), working jointly with Mpigi Police, has arrested five suspects accused of illegally evicting a Catholic priest from disputed land in Ntinzi Village, located within Nkozi Sub-county in Mpigi District.
Authorities identified the suspects as Sande Godfrey, Kyebale Daniel, Lukyamuzi Eric, Magawuli Geoffrey, and Odida Paul, who reportedly claims ownership of the titled land at the center of the dispute.
Investigators say Odida alleges ownership of approximately 100 acres but is accused of unlawfully directing the four co-suspects to forcibly occupy a contested five-acre portion currently disputed with Catholic priest Fr Bwanika Edward, a kibanja holder who has long occupied the land.
According to preliminary reports, the group allegedly destroyed crops belonging to the priest, including coffee and banana plantations, causing significant financial loss. The destruction has raised concerns among local leaders and residents about land rights, tenant protections, and the growing number of eviction disputes affecting vulnerable occupants.
SH-ACU officials said the arrests followed a complaint lodged over the incident. A joint operation was subsequently mounted, leading to the suspects’ apprehension while they were still occupying the disputed land.
Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with possible charges including forcible entry and malicious damage to property. Officials emphasized that the operation reflects continued efforts to address land-related conflicts and enforce lawful dispute resolution mechanisms.
