OYAM, Uganda – Apeaceful night turned into a scene of horror in Anyomu “C” Village on Saturday when a 23-year-old woman was burnt to death in her home, with police naming her estranged husband as the prime suspect.
The Northern Kyoga Region Police have launched a massive manhunt for Okwir Bonny, 27, following the death of his wife, Atwongo Dilishi, a peasant farmer. The incident occurred at approximately 10:00 PM on February 14, 2026, at the couple’s residence in Ariba Parish, Abok Sub-county.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP PJ Okema, the tragedy is the devastating culmination of ongoing domestic disputes.
“The couple had ongoing domestic disputes. Attempts at reconciliation through clan leaders had advised that Atwongo Dilishi remain in her marital home,” SP Okema stated.
On the fateful night, the pair had reportedly attended a marriage ceremony at a neighbor’s home. Shortly after they returned to their house, a fire suddenly broke out, quickly engulfing the structure. The intensity of the blaze raised immediate suspicions.
The victim’s father-in-law, Opio Tonny, along with a neighbor, Odongo Ceaserino, desperately forced their way into the burning house in an attempt to rescue the young woman. Upon gaining entry, they were met with a gruesome discovery: Atwongo Dilishi had been severely burnt and was already unrecognizable.
The LC1 Chairman, Okwanga Walter, was promptly informed and alerted the authorities at Abok Sub-county Police Station.
A team of homicide detectives and Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) visited the site, documented evidence, and recorded statements from witnesses. The victim’s body was later conveyed to the Anyeke HC IV mortuary, where a postmortem examination is pending.
The primary line of inquiry now focuses on locating and apprehending the fleeing husband, Okwir Bonny. Police are working to establish a definitive motive for the killing, which has sent shockwaves through the small farming community.
“We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring justice is served,” SP Okema said. “We urge anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the suspect to come forward to the nearest police station as investigations continue.”
