Johnson Progress

A horrific incident of mob violence has shaken the city of Bukavu in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where a respected football referee was lynched and burned alive by an enraged mob.

Patrick Ngalamulume, a 36-year-old official affiliated with the Bukavu Urban Football Association (EUFBUK), was brutally killed on the night of May 5, 2025, in the Irambo neighborhood.

According to eyewitnesses, Ngalamulume was falsely accused of theft without any evidence presented. The crowd responded violently, beating him and subsequently burning him alive in a brutal display of extrajudicial justice. Emergency services reportedly arrived too late to intervene, allowing the mob to carry out the killing in full view of nearby residents.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the nation’s sporting and civic communities, with many expressing outrage and condemnation.

Ngalamulume was widely admired for his professionalism and dedication to the sport, and his death has left a deep scar on the community.

The incident reflects the growing lawlessness and lack of trust in the legal system in eastern Congo, where communities are increasingly vulnerable amidst civil unrest.

Armed rebel groups such as AFC M23 have contributed to a climate of instability, leaving law enforcement agencies overstretched and unable to prevent such acts of violence.

The rise in mob justice incidents underscores the urgent need for strengthened security measures and community reconciliation efforts.

The government and local authorities must take immediate action to restore safety and order in the region and prevent further acts of violence.

The football community, devastated by Ngalamulume’s killing, is calling for urgent government intervention to curb vigilantism and strengthen law enforcement.

Human rights organizations and sports officials have condemned the attack, warning of the increasing dangers faced by civilians in conflict-affected regions.

Local authorities are under pressure to take action and bring those responsible for the killing to justice.

However, so far, no arrests have been made, and no preventive measures have been announced.