Police in Rukungiri District have launched a murder investigation after a married couple was found burnt to death in their home in Ncerere Village, Kabinga Parish, Buhunga Sub-county. The victims were identified as Byamukama Isaac, 30, a boda boda rider, and his wife, Akatuhurira Christine, 27.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday morning, with their charred bodies discovered around 11:00 AM on Sunday. Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson Elly Maate stated that the house was found locked from the outside, indicating foul play.
According to local authorities, area chairperson Lawrence Kaganga received a call reporting heavy smoke from the couple’s home. Residents, alerted by the smoke and the couple’s unreachable phones, broke into the house. They found the back door open, but the bedroom door was locked from the outside, confirming suspicions of a deliberate act.
“It’s a barbaric act of malicious criminality,” said Maate, adding, “We are treating this as a suspected case of arson and murder. Investigations are ongoing.”
Despite efforts to rescue them, the couple was found dead, their bodies severely burnt, and all belongings in the room reduced to ashes. Police officers have documented evidence, recorded witness statements, and transported the bodies to Rwakabengo Health Centre III for postmortem examination.
No arrests have been made, but police urge anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that “Even the smallest detail could be key to identifying the suspects.”
Kigezi Regional Police Commander James Kawalya recently noted that while Rukungiri has seen a reduction in murder cases, other areas like Rubanda District are emerging as hotspots. He attributed the violence to domestic disputes, land conflicts, and robbery, urging the public to resolve grievances peacefully and avoid vigilantism.
