Step Mother, Boda Boda Rider and Maid Accused in Shocking Student Murder in Wakiso

(Wakiso) – Three suspects in the murder case of a teenage girl appeared in Wakiso Chief Magistrate Court, where an additional suspect was named, leading to his immediate arrest.

A boda boda operator from Makindye, Musa Lubowa, is facing charges related to the alleged murder and rape of Faith Kirabo, a Senior 3 student from St. George High School in Wakiso District. Lubowa, along with co-accused Joyce Masembe, Kirabo’s stepmother, and Hadijah Kennyana, a housemaid, were remanded in custody after a brief mention of their case in court on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

The case was presided over by Magistrate Happy Monica, who informed the accused that due to the serious nature of the charges, the matter would be handled by the High Court. Lubowa, however, raised his hand during the proceedings, requesting permission to speak.

He alleged that another individual, Michael Genza, was involved in the crime, claiming he had given Genza a ride on his boda boda. Following this revelation, detectives from the Wakiso Police Division, who were present in the courtroom, arrested Genza. Although he resisted briefly, he was handcuffed and taken into custody.

According to Wakiso court prosecutor Herbert Mulemeezi, investigations into the case are still ongoing. He requested a court adjournment, and Magistrate Monica set the next mention date for November 20, 2024.

The case dates back to August 14, 2024, when it is alleged that Lubowa, Kennyana, and Masembe tortured and murdered Kirabo. After a five hour search led by her father, Richard Mugarura, Kirabo’s body was found in a dog kennel at their home. Her injuries, including scars on her body and private parts, pointed to severe abuse.

Mugarura, the father of the deceased, expressed hope that justice will be served, stating that he had high hopes for his daughter’s future. He also suggested that additional suspects might be involved and should be brought to justice.