Suspected Thief Loses Hand During Robbery Incident in Nsangi

Police in Nsangi have launched investigations into circumstances under which a suspected thief reportedly lost his hand during a robbery incident.According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala, the incident happened on Friday at around 9pm in Kazinga Cell, Kyengera Town Council, Nsangi Sub-county.

The suspect, a 17-year-old resident of Kyengera, is alleged to have broken into a house in Mungo A Cell and stolen several household items after packing them together.

Police say the suspect reportedly fled the scene before later returning to pick up the remaining property. It is alleged that upon his return, he was confronted by the homeowner.

During the confrontation, the homeowner allegedly attacked the suspect with a panga, severing his hand.“It is alleged that when the suspect returned to collect the remaining property, he was confronted by the homeowner, who reportedly cut off his hand using a panga,” Kawala said.

The suspect was later taken to hospital for treatment as police continue with investigations.

The incident has since sparked debate online, with some people comparing it to punishments mentioned in biblical scripture.One commonly cited verse is from Bible, Exodus 21:24, which states: “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”

Another reference often mentioned is Deuteronomy 19:21, which says: “Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”

However, Uganda’s legal system is governed by the law and due process, with justice administered by courts and law enforcement authorities rather than individuals.

Police have urged the public to avoid taking the law into their own hands as investigations into the Nsangi incident continue.