DR Congo Referee lynched, burnt by mob over alleged theft

A football referee in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Patrick Ngalamulume, was brutally killed by an angry mob after being falsely accused of theft.

The tragic incident happened overnight between May 5 and 6, 2025, in the Irambo neighbourhood. Ngalamulume, 36, popularly known as “Ngalas,” was attacked by locals without any proof of wrongdoing.

He was beaten and set on fire before emergency responders could arrive.

An eyewitness revealed the attack took place in the open as residents watched helplessly. Authorities later confirmed that the late referee, affiliated with the Bukavu Urban Football Association (EUFBUK), had no criminal record.

The murder has drawn strong condemnation from sports officials, community leaders, and the public.

“The government must act. This level of barbarity cannot become a norm,” a local official insisted.

Ngalamulume’s death has sent shockwaves through the football community where he was respected for his dedication and fairness.

The killing has also revived urgent demands for government action to address rising mob justice incidents in the region.

The eastern part of DR Congo has been troubled by insecurity, with armed groups like M23 fuelling lawlessness and weakening public confidence in authorities.

Cities like Bukavu and Goma have recorded growing cases of extrajudicial violence as residents increasingly take the law into their hands.

Community leaders are now calling for an independent investigation, the immediate arrest of the perpetrators, and swift measures to restore public order.

The government is yet to issue an official response to the killing.