A shocking act of mob violence has claimed the life of Patrick Ngalamulume, a respected football referee, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo city of Bukavu. The 36 year old, fondly called “Ngalas,” was brutally attacked and set on fire by a crowd in the Irambo neighborhood between the night of May 5 and the early hours of May 6.
According to witnesses, the violence was triggered by an unsubstantiated accusation of theft. Without evidence or due process, the crowd took matters into their own hands, viciously assaulting Ngalamulume before setting him ablaze. Neighbors were unable to intervene, and emergency services did not arrive in time to prevent the tragedy.
Ngalamulume was widely recognized for his integrity and dedication to the sport. He served under the Bukavu Urban Football Association (EUFBUK) and was admired across local leagues for his fair officiating.
His killing has sparked outrage both locally and nationally, highlighting deep concerns about the breakdown of law and order in eastern DR Congo. The region continues to grapple with insecurity fueled by armed groups such as M23, whose presence has eroded public trust in state institutions. In this climate, mob justice has become a dangerous and increasingly common response to perceived wrongdoing.
“This kind of barbarity must not be normalized,” a local official stated, calling for urgent government intervention to reestablish the rule of law and ensure public safety.
The tragedy has prompted calls from sports officials, civil society leaders, and residents for a thorough and independent investigation. They are demanding arrests and accountability to combat the growing culture of impunity.
The murder of Patrick Ngalamulume has left the Bukavu football community in mourning. More than just a referee, he is now seen as a symbol of what is lost when justice fails and trust in institutions collapses. His death serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to restore order, protect human rights, and rebuild public confidence in the legal system.
