news 6 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Panic in Nakasongola Village After Deadly Leopard Attack on Herdsmen
A leopard attacked herdsmen in Wangoilo village, Nakasongola District, killing 21-year-old Richard Mutebi and critically injuring 19-year-old Eriya Mugabi. Residents fear more assaults as the animal may still be hiding in nearby bushes. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/fear-grips-nakasongola-after-leopard-mauls-herdsmen--5414474
Residents of Wangoilo village in Bugyabe Parish, Nakitoma Sub-county, Nakasongola District, are gripped by fear after a bold daytime leopard attack on April 4.
The predator mauled a group of herdsmen grazing livestock in a dense eucalyptus plantation, resulting in the death of 21-year-old Richard Mutebi and severe injuries to 19-year-old Eriya Mugabi, who was urgently transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital.
Nakitoma Sub-county LC3 chairperson Godfrey Lutalo Muwonge reported that the leopard overpowered more than five men who tried to fight it off with pangas before fleeing into the thickets. “We lost one of our sons, and the animal seemed determined to fight back,” he stated.
District councillor Sam Bitagasa called the incident alarming, noting the herdsmen’s underestimation of the beast’s ferocity. Locals worry about risks to those fetching water from bushy springs or herding nearby.
Some suspect the leopard strayed from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, recalling similar livestock attacks in 2019. Resident Abas Ssekimpi mentioned missing chickens the next day, with feathers and blood leading into the bush.
Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Bashir Hangi confirmed teams are en route to assess and address the threat, urging vigilance in the meantime.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)