Accused of intent to grab land: Kayondo
Police in Kira Municipality have arrested a suspected land dealer over allegations of concealing a land title and issuing threats of violence following a dispute with a property buyer.
The suspect, Kayondo Juma, a resident of Kira–Kito, was arrested on March 1, 2026, and is currently detained at Kira Road Police Station, according to police.
Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed the arrest, saying the case was reported by businessman Umar Katongole, who claims to have fully paid for land sold to him but was denied the corresponding land title.
Allegations
According to police findings, in 2019, Kayondo allegedly sold about 20 decimals of land in Kiwatule to Katongole. The complainant says he paid the agreed amount in full, transfer forms were signed, and ownership processes initiated.
However, police state that in late 2023, Kayondo resurfaced claiming the original sale price was too low compared to prevailing market rates and demanded additional payment. After negotiations involving Muslim elders, Katongole reportedly made extra payments in 2024, after which Kayondo agreed to hand over the land title—albeit for reduced acreage.
COMPLAINANT: Katongole
Police say despite receiving what amounted to double payment, Kayondo failed to surrender the certificate of title and instead allegedly issued threats of violence, including claims that anyone pressing for the title would be harmed. This prompted Katongole to file a formal criminal complaint.
Charges and Investigations
Owoyesigyire said Kayondo is facing charges of concealing a land title and threatening violence, adding that the matter has been referred to the Resident State Attorney for legal guidance as investigations continue.
“The suspect is in custody as inquiries progress. The file is before the Resident State Attorney for direction,” Owoyesigyire said.
Public Advisory
Police used the incident to caution members of the public, particularly those involved in land transactions in Kira Municipality, Wakiso, and surrounding areas, to exercise vigilance.
“We advise the public to always conduct thorough due diligence at the Lands Registry, engage qualified lawyers, and verify ownership before making payments,” Owoyesigyire said.
Land disputes and fraud remain a major challenge in Uganda’s rapidly urbanising areas, with authorities repeatedly urging buyers to follow lawful procedures to avoid falling victim to fraudulent transactions.
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