Tension has gripped residents of Kyebongotoko Village in Mitete Sub-county, Sembabule District, after unknown assailants set ablaze a vehicle belonging to Mawogola County Member of Parliament-elect Dez Oswaldo Byuma in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
The Coaster omnibus, registration number UAF 879K, was completely destroyed in what authorities suspect to be an act of arson.
Residents who spoke at the scene said the incident could be politically motivated, citing heightened tensions in the area following recent elections.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
They revealed that at least three other vehicles have been burnt in recent months under similar circumstances, with some linking the incidents to political rivalries.
Bashir Senyondo, the chairperson of Kyebongotoko Village, said residents initially suspected an electrical fault before establishing that the fire had been deliberately started.
"We first thought it was an electrical problem, but investigations showed that the vehicle was intentionally set on fire. This vehicle has been helping our community in many ways. We strongly condemn this act and call upon security agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter," Senyondo said.
He warned that the perpetrators could be individuals within the community and urged authorities to act swiftly to restore calm.
Speaking about the incident, Byuma described the act as criminal and linked it to lingering political misunderstandings.
"Elections are over, but there are still individuals fueling hatred among communities. This is pure criminality, and I call upon police to conduct serious investigations and ensure those responsible are brought to law," he said.
The Resident District Commissioner of Sembabule, Jane Francis Kaggayi, condemned the attack and confirmed that police had launched a manhunt for the suspects.
She urged residents to strengthen community security measures, including installing surveillance cameras and promptly reporting suspicious activity.
Kaggayi further revealed that intelligence reports indicate some individuals are allegedly organizing meetings in neighbouring districts, including Lwengo, with intentions of destabilising Sembabule.
The Masaka Regional Police Commander, Twaha Kasirye, said investigations into the suspected arson are ongoing and assured the public that security agencies are pursuing leads.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
Authorities have appealed for calm as investigations continue into the incident that has further heightened anxiety in the district.
