By Ritah Atukwatse,
MBARARA
Police in Mbarara District have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of 25-year-old Ritah Akankunda, a resident of Bwizibwera Village, Rutooma Town Council, Mbarara district.
The suspects have been identified as Byamukama Javira Mawuruba, 19, a house help in the Ritah’s home, and Kembabazi Winnie, 30, who is the Ritah ’s sister-in-law.
The body of Akankunda Ritah was discovered early on the morning of May 24 by veterinary doctor Karegyeya Brighton, while attending livestock at the home of Namutebi Jolly in Bwizibwera at around 7:20 a.m.
The police spokesperson for Rwizi region, Samson Kasasira said the arrests were made following the introduction of the K9 dog Honey which led to the home of Byamukama.
“The canine unit was deployed to aid in the investigation. Police dog Honey played a vital role by tracking a scent from the crime scene to a nearby toilet on the same property. In addition the police recovered blood-stained clothes believed to have been worn by Byamukama during the crime,” police reported.
Upon interrogation, Byamukama reportedly confessed to committing the murder and revealed that Kembabazi Winnie had planned the killing. He said that Kembabazi paid him to eliminate Ritah due to longstanding personal conflicts between the two women.
Both suspects are currently being held at Bwizibwera Central Police Station as investigations continue. Authorities have promised a thorough inquiry to ensure justice is served.
