Mityana -- Police in Mityana District are investigating the brutal murder of 37-year-old businessman Gaddafi Matovu , whose body was discovered partially buried in a maize garden in Zigoti Town Council.

Gaddafi, a resident of Kajunki Village in Nabbatu Parish, went missing on Sunday, September 14, and was reported to police two days later.

Villager Edward Maale stumbled upon the body on Wednesday morning, spotting a hand protruding from the soil.

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According to Wamala Region Police Spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala, the discovery revealed a body in an advanced state of decomposition, showing visible signs of violence. "The body was covered with soil and dry grass, but one hand remained visible. This raised suspicion and led to the shocking discovery," Kawala said.

Preliminary investigations suggest multiple motives, including long-standing family disputes over land and reports of Matovu's involvement in a romantic affair with a married woman. "We cannot rule out multiple motives at this stage. Family land conflicts and personal relationships are both lines of inquiry," Kawala added.

Witnesses described a chilling scene: Matovu was found dressed in black jeans, a green T-shirt, and a blue striped jacket covering his head, with grass growing through it.

The remains displayed peeling skin, protruding eyes and tongue, bruises on the hand, and blood from the mouth and nose.

The body has been taken to Mityana Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination. Police have recorded statements from the area chairperson and key witnesses, with further interrogations expected.

Residents of Zigoti Town Council expressed shock over the killing, describing it as one of the most disturbing cases in recent years.

"Land wrangles have cost lives here before, but the way this man was killed is frightening," said one village elder.

SP Kawala urged the public to remain calm and assist authorities with credible information to ensure justice is served.