Police in Kasese have blamed the recent attacks on security installations and internal clashes in Rwenzori region on witchcraft and money that are believed to be fuelling the conflict.
Police say some militia-like groups, who are involved in attacking security deployments, do so under the influence of witchcraft and promises for big money in exchange for guns and other incentives by undisclosed groups.
The Rwenzori East regional police commander, Mr Deo Obura, said the groups are being sent by yet undisclosed godfathers.
“Witch doctors incite the attackers and administer herbs into their bodies, telling them the herbs will make them immune to bullets,” Mr Obura said at the weekend.
The raging violence in the Rwenzori region has left more than 45 people dead.
Mr Obura was on Monday addressing a meeting of religious leaders and leaders of civil society organisations chaired by South Rwenzori Diocese Bishop Jackson Thembo Nzerebende at the diocesan Agape Guest House in Kamaiba Ward, Kasese Municipality.
Bishop Nzerebende said the meeting was convened to get updates on the security situation and to chart a common approach to restoring peace and stability in Kasese.
The meeting was convened a day after security operatives of the police Flying Squad shot and killed Yafesi Mugoye, a Rwenzururu cultural institution royal guard, around Shauri Yako market in Kasese Town last week.
According to Obura, the operatives shot Mugoye to prevent him from grabbing a pistol in an attempt to rescue his colleague, Juma Muliki, who was being arrested in connection with the March night raid on Kidodo police post.
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