A theft suspect is being held at the Busia police station after he was rescued by police from angry residents who had threatened to lynch him.
Dedias Wanjala was confronted by the public in the Victory area in the outskirts of Busia town on Tuesday.
Residents who spoke to the Star at the scene said Wanjala was caught stealing clothes hung out to dry.
They said the suspect,
a boda boda rider from Alupe in Teso South subcounty, is a common thief.
“The suspect is a hardcore criminal, but his 40 days are over today. I hope the law will take its course because there is adequate evidence,” a resident said.
Confirming the incident, Busia police boss Masai Makau said the suspect was caught wearing stolen clothes belonging to residents.
In April, a mob lynched a police officer and injured another in Voi on Saturday after mistaking them for thieves.