Arua, Uganda – November 7, 2025

A quiet village in Vurra Sub-County was rocked by horror on the night of November 6 when a 66-year-old woman was beaten to death by a mob accusing her of witchcraft. Police in Arua have launched a manhunt for the suspects as the community reels from yet another brutal act of mob justice.

The victim, Andezu Lucy Charles, a Lugbara peasant farmer from Andufeku A Center Village in Ringili Parish, was attacked outside her home under cover of darkness. Her body was discovered the next morning lying on her back, half-naked, beside a dead cat. Nearby lay the weapons—clubs and sticks—used to end her life and smash her window glasses.

According to police, the deadly assault stemmed from grief and suspicion. A young neighbor, Sunday Albert, had fallen seriously ill. He was first treated at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, discharged, but his condition worsened. He was rushed to Kuluva Hospital where he later died. His relatives, who lived close to Andezu, pointed fingers at the elderly woman, claiming she had bewitched the young man.

Fueled by anger and superstition, a group stormed her compound that night. What followed was a savage attack that left the widow dead and her home vandalized.

Police responded swiftly after being alerted. Officers visited the scene, documented the gruesome evidence, and transported Andezu’s body to Arua Hospital mortuary for a postmortem examination. The case has been registered as murder by mob under Arua Vurra CRB 237/2025.

“No suspects have been arrested yet,” said a police source, “but we’re following strong leads. These people will face justice.”

The sticks, clubs, and broken glass have been collected as exhibits. Investigators are appealing to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of those involved.

SSP Josephine Angucia, the Police PRO for West Nile Region, condemned the killing in the strongest terms. “Mob justice based on witchcraft allegations is barbaric, unfair, and illegal,” she said. “It destroys lives and tears communities apart. We urge people to let the law take its course. Report suspicions to police—not take matters into your own hands.”

Residents of Andufeku A are living in fear. One local, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “This isn’t the first time. When someone dies suddenly, people look for someone to blame. But killing an innocent elder? This has to stop.”

Community leaders and religious figures have called for calm and urged families to seek medical explanations for illnesses rather than turning to deadly accusations. Health officials say many sudden deaths blamed on witchcraft are often due to untreated conditions like malaria, hypertension, or infections.

As the investigation continues, police have increased patrols in the area and are working with local councils to sensitize residents about the dangers of mob violence.

Andezu Lucy leaves behind a family still coming to terms with the brutality of her death. Her funeral arrangements are pending the release of her body after autopsy.

Authorities say anyone with information should contact Arua Police or the nearest station. “Your tip could prevent the next tragedy,” SSP Angucia added.

Written by

Andrew Ogwang

Andrew Ogwang is a dedicated Ugandan journalist based in the Northern Region, with a focus on economic reporting, current affairs, and social issues affecting the country. Ogwang has contributed to several local media outlets, including print and digital platforms like The Northern Press, where he has covered topics ranging from policy developments and community stories to investigative pieces on development challenges in Uganda.