Man Attempts Murder-Suicide After Domestic Dispute in Lira City

LIRA CITY, Uganda – A 20-year-old woman is fighting for her life, and a man is under police guard in the hospital after a horrific incident of attempted murder and attempted suicide on Friday evening in Lira City West Division. The attack, which police are treating as a case of domestic violence, has left the community in shock and prompted a stern warning from authorities.

The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. on July 24, 2026, in Te Dam Cell, Ojwina Ward. According to police reports, a male suspect, whose identity has not yet been established, called his girlfriend, Lacwec Joan, to meet with him. The couple had reportedly been involved in a disagreement prior to their encounter.

Upon meeting, the suspect allegedly attacked Ms. Joan with a panga, inflicting serious cut wounds. Following the brutal assault, the suspect is believed to have consumed a poisonous substance, collapsing unconscious at the scene.

Members of the community quickly responded to the incident and alerted the police. Both the injured victim and the unconscious suspect were rushed to Lira Regional Referral Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment. The suspect remains under police guard as investigations continue.

Police officers visited and processed the crime scene, recovering a panga believed to have been used in the attack and a bottle containing the suspected poison. These items have been documented as evidence in the case, which has been registered under the Lira City West Police Division.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the suspect’s identity and the exact circumstances that led to the violent confrontation. Police plan to record statements from the complainant, witnesses, and the victim once her medical condition permits. A Police Medical Examination Form (PF3) will be issued to facilitate the investigation.

In a statement, Police Spokesperson for the North Kyoga Region, SP PJ Okema, condemned the act, describing it as a “primitive approach to handling disagreement.” He appealed to couples and individuals in relationships to seek better and more constructive ways of resolving problems by engaging family, elders, or professional counselors.

“This is a sad reminder of the consequences of unresolved anger,” SP Okema stated. “We urge the public to seek help from various stakeholders to manage disputes peacefully.”

Further updates on this case will be provided as more information becomes available.