A retired police officer has been arrested in Bwera Division, Kasese District, for allegedly stabbing his wife to death in a domestic violence incident.
Sipiriano Kyakwairwe, 65, was taken into custody after reportedly attacking and fatally stabbing his 50-year-old wife, Night Masika, at their home in Kakone I Village, Nyakiyumbu Sub-county, on March 17, 2025.
According to neighbour Suzan Masika, the suspect had previously expressed frustrations over his wife’s alleged extramarital affairs, which had led to their separation.
"He had been complaining about their marriage problems, accusing her of having multiple relationships. They had separated, but she returned yesterday to collect her belongings," Suzan Masika said.
She added that shortly after Masika entered the house, neighbors heard her screams.
"By the time we reached, the door was locked from inside," she recounted.
Another resident, Jockus Funga, said that when they finally managed to break down the door, it was too late.
"We found Masika lying in a pool of blood with deep stab wounds in her stomach. The suspect was still seated on her, holding the knife," Funga said.
Bwera Division Police Commander, SP Ramadhan Tai, confirmed the arrest and provided details of the ongoing investigation.
"We received a distress call from residents about a domestic violence-related murder. Our officers arrived at the scene and found that the suspect had fatally stabbed his wife," Tai said.
"Preliminary findings indicate that the attack was triggered by a dispute after the deceased attempted to leave the home. The suspect is now in custody at Bwera Police Division as investigations continue."
He urged residents to seek peaceful ways of resolving domestic conflicts and to report early signs of violence to the authorities.
Local leaders condemned the incident, calling for stronger community engagement in addressing domestic violence.
Nyakiyumbu Sub-county Chairperson, Peter Kakule, emphasized the need for preventive measures.
"This is a tragic case that could have been avoided. Families must be educated on conflict resolution, and cases of domestic violence should be reported before they escalate," Kakule said.
Authorities have encouraged residents facing domestic challenges to seek help through legal and counseling services to prevent further loss of lives.