RUBIRIZI
Police in Rubirizi District are investigating a suspected murder following a domestic dispute that claimed the life of a 53-year-old man.
The deceased has been identified as Mwebe James, a resident of Kirugu Village in Kichwamba Sub-county.
According to the Greater Bushenyi regional police spokesperson, SP Apollo Tayebwa, preliminary findings indicate that on April 12, 2026, Mwebe got into a domestic altercation with his wife, Namusoke Stella, at their home.
During the incident, members of the community reportedly intervened and allegedly assaulted Mwebe.
Police said that on April 13, the victim was rushed to Kyenzaza Health Centre III for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival.
“Police responded promptly, visited and examined the scene, and recorded statements from relevant witnesses,” Tayebwa said in a statement.
The body was later conveyed to Rugazi Health Centre IV mortuary for a postmortem examination to establish the exact cause of death.
Tayebwa said police have arrested the deceased wife, Namusoke, who is considered a key suspect in the case, to assist police with investigations. He added that a manhunt for other individuals suspected to have participated in the assault is underway.
“We strongly condemn acts of mob justice and domestic violence. Members of the public are urged to resolve disputes through lawful means and report such incidents to police,” Tayebwa added.
The incident comes against the backdrop of persistent domestic violence cases across the country.
According to the 2025 Police Annual Crime Report, a total of 12,361 domestic violence cases were recorded, reflecting a 12.2 percent decrease from 14,073 cases reported in 2024.
However, the report highlights a worrying rise in domestic violence-related murders. A total of 208 such cases were registered in 2025, up from 183 cases in 2024, representing a 13.7 percent increase.
“208 persons were victims of aggravated domestic violence, including 89 male adults, 92 female adults, 14 male juveniles and 13 female juveniles,” the report read in parts.
Regionally, North Kyoga and Rwizi police regions registered the highest number of cases at 28 and 19 respectively. At district level, Mubende, Kyenjojo and Oyam recorded the highest number of domestic violence-related murders, with 10 cases each.
Police attributes the rising cases of domestic violence to property disputes, poverty, drug and alcohol abuse, and infidelity.
