MBALE, Uganda — Proceedings at the High Court of Uganda circuit in Mbale were abruptly halted on Thursday after a swarm of bees invaded the court premises, triggering panic among judicial officers, lawyers, inmates, and members of the public.
Witnesses said the incident unfolded suddenly during active court sessions, forcing dozens of people—including prison wardens and inmates under escort—to flee for safety as the bees spread across the courtroom and surrounding areas.
Videos circulating online showed chaotic scenes, with individuals diving for cover and others running out of the courtroom to avoid being stung.
Proceedings disrupted
Authorities confirmed that court business was temporarily suspended as efforts were made to restore order and ensure safety.
The High Court of Uganda is one of the country’s superior courts of record, handling serious civil and criminal matters and overseeing appeals from lower courts.
The Mbale circuit, which serves eastern Uganda, regularly handles a heavy caseload, including land disputes, criminal trials, and appeals.
The unexpected disruption therefore affected not only scheduled hearings but also detainees awaiting trial and legal practitioners present for different matters.
Safety concerns and response
Security personnel and court officials reportedly intervened to disperse the swarm and guide people to safer areas. No official statement had been issued by authorities by press time regarding injuries, though initial reports suggested the primary impact was panic and temporary disruption rather than serious harm.
Incidents involving bee swarms are not uncommon in parts of eastern Uganda, particularly during hot or dry conditions when colonies become more aggressive or are disturbed.
Broader impact
The disruption highlights the vulnerability of public institutions to unexpected environmental factors, especially in regions where court infrastructure is not always fully enclosed or climate-controlled.
Court operations later resumed after the situation was brought under control, though some hearings were reportedly postponed.
The incident quickly drew attention online, with many Ugandans expressing shock while others reacted with humor to the unusual interruption of judicial proceedings.
For now, authorities are expected to review safety measures to prevent similar disruptions in the future, as court activity in Mbale returns to normal.
