Joint security forces have arrested five people in connection with the death of two people in Mubende District amidst a long-standing land dispute.

The deceased were identified as Milly Namutebi Naava 54, and Abdulah Kayizzi 53.

The Wamala Regional Police Spokesperson, Racheal Kawala said that the death occurred in Kilwanyi village, Kiruma Sub-county, Mubende district on Monday morning, July 31, 2023.

“Based on preliminary findings, it was reported that at around 8 a.m., Namutebi Milly Naava, along with her husband, Abudalah Kayizzi, and their two sons, Ssekamate Muzafaru and Ibrahim Kawuma, were ambushed by a group of approximately 30 individuals led by Benjamin Tumusiime,” Kawala said.

Police said that the attack occurred while the victims were leaving the home of Benjamin Tumusiime.

Kawala said that both Namutebi and her husband Kayizi were hacked to death during the violent incident, while their two sons managed to escape but sustained serious injuries.

According to Kawala, the motive behind the murder has been identified as a long-standing land dispute, specifically involving an eight-square mile piece of land situated in Kilwanyi village.

Police said that the bodies of the deceased have been taken to Mubende Hospital, pending a postmortem. In response to the investigation, the police have arrested five suspects believed to be connected to the crime.

“These individuals are currently detained at Mubende Central Police Station while efforts continue to identify and apprehend more suspects involved in this horrific act. The authorities are committed to ensuring justice for the victims and their families,” Kawala said.

“We urge the public to cooperate with the police by providing any relevant information that may aid the investigation and appeal for calm in the affected community during this trying time,” Kawala added