Ugandan Entertainers Demand Justice for Rugby Star Sydney Gongodyo After Fatal Mob Attack
KAMPALA, Uganda — Ugandan entertainers, including media personality Sheilah Gashumba and singer Big Eye Starboss, have joined growing calls for justice following the tragic death of Uganda Rugby Cranes and Black Pirates player Sydney Gongodyo, who died after being attacked by a mob in Bukoto, Kampala.
The 27-year-old rugby player succumbed to injuries sustained during a mob assault near TMT Supermarket on June 5, 2026, after being wrongly accused of theft.
CCTV Footage Clears Sydney Gongodyo
During an emotional sendoff ceremony held at Kings Park Arena on Sunday, Gongodyo’s father revealed that CCTV footage reviewed after the incident cleared his son of any wrongdoing.
According to the family, the footage showed that the actual suspect who allegedly snatched a woman’s handbag escaped on a waiting boda boda. Gongodyo, who happened to be nearby at the time, was mistakenly targeted by an angry crowd and brutally attacked.
The revelation has sparked widespread outrage across Uganda, with many questioning how an innocent citizen could lose his life due to mob justice.
Police Arrest Three Suspects
The Uganda Police Force has confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with Gongodyo’s death.
The suspects were identified as Ssebagala Noordin, Ayebazibwe Roden, and Namukose Juliet.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala said preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased was attacked by members of the public who accused him of stealing a woman’s handbag.
Police say investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal assault are ongoing.
Sheilah Gashumba Calls for Accountability
Media personality Sheilah Gashumba has publicly condemned the incident and called on authorities to ensure justice is served.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Gashumba expressed sadness over the gruesome killing and criticized law enforcement officers for failing to protect an innocent person from mob violence.
She appealed to security authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and hold all responsible individuals accountable.
Her comments have resonated with many Ugandans online, where the hashtag #JusticeForSydney continues to gain momentum.
Big Eye Starboss Speaks Out Against Mob Justice
Singer Big Eye Starboss also condemned the killing in a video posted on his Instagram account.
The musician warned against the growing trend of mob justice, arguing that innocent people are increasingly becoming victims of false accusations and public violence.
He urged citizens to allow law enforcement agencies to handle criminal allegations instead of taking matters into their own hands.
Calls to End Mob Justice in Uganda
The death of Sydney Gongodyo has reignited national debate about mob justice in Uganda, with human rights advocates, sports personalities, entertainers, and members of the public demanding stronger action against those who participate in unlawful attacks.
Many have called for increased public awareness and stricter enforcement of laws to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Burial Arrangements
Sydney Gongodyo will be laid to rest on Tuesday in Buweri Town Council, Budadiri County, Sironko District, as family members, friends, teammates, and supporters continue to mourn the promising rugby star.
As investigations continue, Ugandans remain united in seeking answers and justice for a young athlete whose life was cut short by a tragic case of mistaken identity.
