Police have confirmed two brothers arrested over murder of their sister’s lover in Rukungiri District, Western Uganda. The suspects allegedly assaulted the 24-year-old man after a late-night dispute, leaving him unconscious. He later died on the way to the hospital.
Kigezi regional police spokesperson, Mr. Elly Maate, identified the suspects as Posiano Ndyamuhaki and John Murokozi. They reportedly attacked Gideon Kakuru, also known as Hakizimana Kaboy, around 3 am on Sunday, July 27, 2025. The incident occurred at Kanyankyende cell, Nyabitete Parish, in Bugangari Sub-county.
The victim had been in a romantic relationship with the suspects’ sister, Justine Nsimire, who owns the bar where the fight took place. Police also detained Nsimire for questioning.
According to Mr. Maate, the three siblings and the victim had been drinking at the bar with other patrons. During the night, Kakuru allegedly tried to initiate sexual activity with Nsimire at the venue. This provoked her brothers, who confronted and violently beat him.
After the attack, residents alerted the local LCI chairperson, Mr. Wilber Habaasa, who attempted to rush Kakuru to a hospital. Unfortunately, he died along the way. The police at Bugangari Police Post arrested the suspects immediately after receiving the report.
This marks the latest in a disturbing trend of violence in the district. According to official police data, Rukungiri has recorded eight murder cases since July 1. Neighboring Kabale District follows with four, while Rubanda has two in the same period.
Rukungiri District Community Development Officer, Mr. Posias Agaba, blamed the rising murders on poverty and unemployment. He noted that many young people depend on relatives for survival, which causes friction and resentment.
“Other contributing factors include land disputes, alcoholism, drug abuse, and the high cost of living,” Mr. Agaba explained. He added that the district runs radio programs to sensitize communities, though limited funding has hampered face-to-face outreach at sub-county level.
With two brothers arrested over murder, police continue their investigation to bring justice and address the violence plaguing the region.
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