Police in Arua City are investigating the killing of two men by a mob over suspected motorcycle theft, authorities said Tuesday.

The incident occurred shortly after midnight on March 23 at Buniababa trading centre in Ayivu East Division, and was reported to police minutes later, according to regional police.

The deceased were identified as Godfrey Aliga, 30, a boda-boda rider, and Vincent Mabe, 24, both residents of Ayivu East Division.

Police spokesperson for West Nile region, SSP Josephine Angucia, said the two were intercepted by residents who had organised night patrols following a rise in motorcycle thefts.

“It is alleged that the two deceased persons were seen rolling a numberless red Bajaj motorcycle, which the mob believed was stolen,” she said.

The pair reportedly attempted to flee when confronted but were chased, captured and brought back to the scene, where they were beaten to death.

Police said the case was registered at Oluko Police Post before being transferred to Ayivu East Division under a murder by mob action file.

Officers later recovered the motorcycle suspected to have been stolen and transported the bodies to Arua Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examination.

Investigators documented the scene and recorded statements from witnesses. Police said some residents alleged the two men had previously been linked to motorcycle theft.

Angucia urged the public to refrain from mob justice and instead hand over suspects to authorities.

“Those found to have participated in the mob action will be arrested and charged with murder,” she said.

Mob killings are not uncommon in parts of Uganda, often driven by frustration over crime and distrust in the justice system.