Mbarara, Uganda: Police in Mbarara District are investigating the brutal murder of a 25-year-old woman whose death has been linked to a domestic feud involving her sister-in-law.
The deceased, Akankunda Rita, a resident of Bwizibwera cell in Rutooma Town Council, was found dead under suspicious circumstances that led police to arrest two suspects, including her sister-in-law.
The suspects have been identified as Byamukama Javira Mawuruba, 19, a casual worker, and Kembabazi Winnie, 30, the deceased’s sister-in-law.
The incident came to light after veterinary doctor Karegyeya Brighton reported the body to authorities, prompting a rapid police response. A team of investigators processed the crime scene, and a police dog named Honey was deployed to aid in the investigation.
According to police, Honey tracked a scent trail that led officers to blood-stained clothing belonging to Byamukama, which had been hidden at the home of Namutebi Jolly.
Upon interrogation, Byamukama reportedly confessed to the killing and claimed he was paid by Kembabazi to execute the murder. The motive, investigators say, stems from long-standing disagreements between the two women.
Both suspects are currently in custody as police continue with investigations.
Rising Cases of Domestic Murders
Recent months have seen a worrying increase in domestic-related killings across southwestern Uganda, with family disputes, land wrangles, and relationship breakdowns at the heart of many homicides.
In districts such as Mbarara, Ntungamo, Bushenyi, and Rukiga, police reports show a consistent pattern where victims are often women targeted by close relatives, partners, or spouses. In some cases, hired assailants have been used by family members to execute killings, as seen in the murder of Akankunda Rita.
Security agencies have expressed concern over the trend, urging local leaders, cultural institutions, and religious figures to intervene in resolving household conflicts before they escalate into violence.
Civil society actors have also called for improved psychosocial support, conflict resolution programs, and community policing models to mitigate the domestic violence crisis.
Police warned that suspects will be pursued and prosecuted to deter others from turning domestic grievances into bloodshed.
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