Masaka Residents Live in Fear as Threatening Leaflets Reappear

A wave of fear has gripped communities in Masaka Sub-region after unidentified individuals distributed threatening leaflets. The handwritten notes, which have appeared in villages such as Kisoso, Kiteredde, Kimwanyi, and Luteete, warn of impending attacks and the intention to behead residents and take their blood.

These chilling messages have heightened anxiety among locals, who recall similar incidents in previous years that resulted in numerous fatalities across Masaka, Bukomansimbi, and Lwengo Districts. The leaflets specifically mention a need for the blood of 10 people, indicating a targeted threat.

Local leaders and residents are calling on security agencies to act swiftly, emphasizing that past attacks also began with the distribution of such warning messages. “Security authorities should not wait for the attackers to strike and start patrolling the area,” urged Mariam Nanyanzi, a concerned resident. Community leaders are also mobilizing to enhance local security measures while awaiting official support.

Police have acknowledged the threats and launched an investigation, submitting the leaflets for forensic analysis. Southern Regional Police Spokesperson, Mr. Twaha Kasirye, stated that the leaflets could be an attempt to instill fear and urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

This recurrence of threatening leaflets echoes past events, including similar incidents in September last year and August 2022. These instances bring back painful memories of the 2017 and 2021 attacks in Greater Masaka, which claimed the lives of at least 26 people, primarily the elderly.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/fear-as-scary-leaflets-return-in-masaka-5577032