Residents of Lugazi municipality, Buikwe district are living in fear following the circulation of anonymous letters warning of an impending attack against those who will not release money to the authors of the letters.

The letters contain a list of 26 names including area leaders and prominent businessmen and women, who are targeted by the authors. On the same list are also three schools being targeted by the same group for possible attacks.

One of the letters was dropped in Nakazadde village where it was picked up by a resident and presented to police. Written in red ink, the letter indicates that all persons who fail to avail the amount of money written against their names will be “cut, cut into pieces.” The authors say they deliberately used red ink to signify bloodshed.

On the list is Mwanje Sebbowa, a FUFA delegate was asked to pay Shs 10 million, the same amount expected from former MP Bruno Pajobo, and Nakazadde village chairman only identified as Mukasa. They are also demanding Shs 7 million from Little Angels’ nursery school, Shs 5 million from Juliana high school and Shs 3 million from True Light School.

Several other residents have been asked for money ranging between Shs 500,000 and Shs 10 million. Bill Tomusange, the director of Juliana high school said he has left the matter to police and God.

However, Juma Kisuule and Swaibu Mubiru, some of the leaders in the area downplayed the threats and asked the residents to remain calm.

Lugazi district police commander Alex Wabwire said that police are working with the community to apprehend the authors of the letters. He says police has intensified operations in Lugazi and surrounding areas to avert any possible attacks.

Similar letters have previously been dropped in Masaka, Entebbe, Luweero and other parts of the country. The authors of the letters usually executed their threats.