Police in Rukungiri District, western Uganda, are investigating a suspected arson and murder case after a couple was found burnt to death in their home on Saturday morning. The incident, which has shocked the local community, occurred in Ncerere Village, Kabinga Parish, Buhunga Sub-county.
The victims, Isaac Byamukama, 30, a boda boda rider, and his wife, Christine Akatuhurira, 27, were discovered dead inside their locked bedroom. Preliminary police findings suggest the fire was deliberately set, pointing to a possible act of foul play. The couple’s bedroom door was locked from the outside, leaving them with no means of escape as the flames consumed their home.
Elly Maate, the police spokesperson for the Kigezi Region, described the incident as a barbaric act of malicious criminality. He confirmed that the police are treating the case as suspected arson and murder, with investigations underway to uncover the circumstances and identify those responsible. The police are working tirelessly to establish the facts and bring the perpetrators to justice, Maate said.
Local authorities were alerted to the tragedy around 11:00 a.m. when a resident, Kariisa, reported seeing heavy smoke rising from the couple’s home. Lawrence Kaganga, the area chairperson, recounted the community’s desperate efforts to intervene. The front door was locked, and their phones were switched off, he said. The community had to break through a wooden side fence to access the house. The back door was open, but the bedroom was locked from the outside.
Despite the community’s attempts to rescue the couple, they were unable to save them. By the time the fire was extinguished, Isaac and Christine were found dead, their bodies severely burnt, and all their belongings reduced to ash. The devastating scene left residents in disbelief and mourning.
Police officers arrived at the scene shortly after, collecting evidence and recording statements from witnesses. The couple’s bodies were transported to Rwakabengo Health Centre III for postmortem examinations to determine the exact cause of death. As of Sunday, no arrests had been made, but the police urged the public to come forward with any information that could help the investigation. Even the smallest detail could lead to the suspects, Maate emphasized.
The tragedy has heightened fears among residents, as violent crimes have been a growing concern in the Kigezi Region. During a recent case management session at Kabale High Court, Kigezi Regional Police Commander James Kawalya highlighted the region’s struggle with violence. While Rukungiri has seen a decline in murder cases, from six to fewer per month, neighboring Rubanda District has reported an average of four murders monthly. Kawalya pointed to domestic disputes, land conflicts, and robberies as key drivers of violence in the area.
Kawalya urged residents to resolve conflicts peacefully and avoid vigilante justice, which only leads to further tragedy. People must use legal and peaceful means to address their grievances, he said. Taking the law into one’s own hands creates more pain and suffering.
The deaths of Isaac and Christine have left a profound impact on Ncerere Village, with neighbors and community leaders expressing grief and calling for justice. The couple was known for their hard work and quiet lives, making their brutal deaths even more shocking. Residents have demanded swift action from the police to ensure those responsible are held accountable.
As investigations continue, the police remain committed to uncovering the truth behind this horrific incident. The case has underscored the need for greater community awareness and cooperation to combat violent crime in the region. Authorities are hopeful that public assistance will lead to a breakthrough, bringing closure to the grieving community and ensuring such a tragedy does not happen again.