By Kenneth Wamatoyi
JINJA
In a significant law enforcement operation conducted on 21st November, six traditional herbalists in Jinja district have been arrested, and sacks filled with dead human bones and skeletons were discovered in their shrines.
The operation, led by Kiira Regional Police Command under the direction of SSP Charles Nsaba, was executed in Buwenge Town Council. It involved coordinated efforts from the Regional CID, headed by SSP Monday Johnson Agaba, and the local police under the command of SP Morris Oyee, the DPC of CPS Buwenge.
The arrested suspects are: Afani Zubairi (62), a resident of Mawaito in Buwenge Rural Sub County; Ronald Mukasa (51), from Market Zone, Buwenge Town Council; Ibrahim Iswezi (42), also from Market Zone, Buwenge Town Council; Nathan Nantakika (32), from Muguluka East, Buwenge Town Council; Herman Wabitotya (18), from Kyerinda Zone, Buwenge Town Council; and Sharif Mugere (18), from Butagaya Sub County, Jinja District.
The arrests followed widespread public outcry over disturbing reports of the herbalists demanding human bones and skeletons from the community, allegedly for economic or commercial gain.
The police are now thoroughly questioning the suspects about the source of the human remains, which are believed to be from individuals who died over fifty years ago. Forensic samples of the bones and skeletons have been submitted for DNA analysis to determine their origin.
Kiira Regional Police Spokesperson, SP James Mubi, confirmed that the suspects are being charged with disturbing the peace of the dead.
He further urged the public to pursue lawful, productive endeavors instead of engaging in unlawful activities that have serious legal and social implications.
Mubi emphasized that traditional herbalists must completely refrain from requesting human body parts, extorting people, or providing false hopes to vulnerable individuals seeking solutions for personal problems such as broken marriages or relationships.
Mubi also appealed to the public, particularly those who may have fallen victim to these illegal practices, to come forward and file official complaints with the police in order to seek justice.
