By Nathan Eyagu 

KUMI - Authorities in Kumi Municipality are investigating a case involving a primary school teacher and an unidentified accomplice who were allegedly caught in possession of stolen chickens.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of December 25, 2024.

The suspect, identified as Otim Erasmus, a 40-year-old teacher at Kumi Modern Nursery and Primary School, was apprehended alongside an unidentified man after being spotted with four chickens at Bethany Convention Center. The matter was reported to Kumi Central Police Station (CPS) by Okeju Godfrey, a 25-year-old security guard on duty at the venue.  

According to the police report, Okeju noticed the two men behaving suspiciously at around 2:00 a.m. and questioned them about the origin of the chickens. Unable to account for the property, the suspects were detained by Okeju and his colleague, Ekitui Paul, another security guard.  

The situation escalated when a mob gathered at the scene, angered by the alleged theft. The unidentified accomplice was severely beaten by the mob and had to be rushed to Kumi Hospital for emergency treatment. Meanwhile, Otim Erasmus was spared and handed over to police custody.  

The case, registered under CRB 725/2024, is being treated as possession of suspected stolen property. The four chickens have been secured as evidence while investigations continue to determine their rightful owner and the circumstances of the incident.  

Speaking on the matter, RPC East Kyoga Region, Damalie Nachuha, condemned the mob action and urged the public to avoid taking the law into their own hands. “Mob justice undermines the rule of law and violates individuals’ rights. We urge citizens to report suspected crimes to law enforcement authorities and allow the legal process to take its course,” she said in a statement.  

The unidentified suspect remains hospitalized, and police are working to confirm his identity. Meanwhile, Otim Erasmus is cooperating with the investigation. Authorities have assured the public that the case will be handled thoroughly and justice will prevail.