Police in Iganga District have arrested three students accused of participating in a brutal mob attack that led to the death of an 18 year old student, Bikaddo Muhammad.

The incident occurred as Bikaddo was walking home from school on Wednesday July 9 2025.

According to preliminary police reports, the suspects identified as Isabirye Swaibu (20), Nelson Mayanja (17), and Shafick Buyinza (20) are students of Iganga Progressive Senior Secondary School. They allegedly ambushed and violently beat up Bikaddo, a student at Iganga Parents’ Senior Secondary School, leading to his death.

The deceased, who resided with his parents in Nabidongha C village, Buligo Parish in Iganga Town Council, was pronounced dead at the scene and his body has since been taken to Iganga General Hospital for a postmortem examination.

Busoga East Police Spokesperson, ASP Michael Kafayo, confirmed the arrests during a press briefing on July 10, condemning the act as a heinous and senseless crime committed by youth with no regard for human life.

“It is tragic that individuals this young are involved in such a violent and ruthless act. This behavior poses a serious threat to both society and their own families,” ASP Kafayo stated.

He further revealed that the police have launched a manhunt for additional suspects who were reportedly involved in the attack but are still on the run.

Authorities urged members of the public to come forward with any information that could aid the ongoing investigations.

“We believe there are more people behind this crime. Our teams are actively pursuing leads and will not rest until all those responsible are brought to justice,” he added.

This incident comes amid a worrying rise in mob justice cases across Iganga and the broader South Eastern Region of Uganda. Local leaders and law enforcement officials attribute this increase to growing public frustration with delayed justice, repeated incidents of theft, lack of trust in police processes, and limited legal awareness among the public.

Authorities have recently intensified anti-mob justice campaigns, emphasizing community engagement, legal education, and swift prosecution of perpetrators. Despite these efforts, cases like Bikaddo’s highlight the ongoing challenges in curbing vigilante violence.

Police continue to appeal to the public for cooperation and information to support justice and prevent further loss of life through unlawful means.