A horrifying incident has rocked the quiet village of Kyandigita-Bujumbula in Nabiswera Sub-county, Nakasongola District, after a man was caught attempting to traffic his friend’s severed head for alleged ritual sale in Kampala.
The suspect, identified as John Isoke, is now in custody after being intercepted by vigilant residents while trying to flee with the human head concealed in a brown polythene bag.
According to Savannah Region Police Spokesperson SP Sam Twiineamazima, the incident unfolded on Tuesday morning when Ketty Namuga, a farm manager and former employer of the suspect, discovered the body of one of her workers, Herbert Ameir, decapitated near a farmhouse.
Namuga, who was inspecting the farm with a newly hired employee, reportedly spotted Isoke acting suspiciously and hastily leaving the property.
Her alarm drew the attention of area residents, who quickly mobilized and gave chase.
When the suspect was confronted, he abandoned the bag and attempted to run but was overpowered by the crowd and immediately handed over to Migyera Police Station.
“When questioned, the suspect admitted to killing his friend Herbert Ameir and disclosed he was transporting the head to Kisenyi, Kampala City, for sale, allegedly for ritual purposes,” SP Twiineamazima confirmed.
Preliminary findings suggest that Isoke used a panga to carry out the brutal murder inside a small farmhouse, after which he dragged the lifeless body outside.
Responding officers recovered a blood-stained panga beside the corpse, further confirming the gruesome details of the crime.
SP Twiineamazima stated that investigations are currently underway at Nakasongola Police Station to determine the full extent of the crime, including whether Isoke acted alone or was part of a broader network involved in ritual killings.
Authorities are now widening the scope of the investigation to uncover any potential links to ritual trade rings that may be operating between rural areas and Kampala.
The chilling nature of the murder has left residents in shock, as they struggle to come to terms with the brutal killing carried out in their midst.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may be linked to ritual practices or similar criminal enterprises.
The suspect remains in detention as detectives continue to gather evidence and prepare for prosecution.
