Police in Rubanda District are investigating the suspected suicide of Barnabas Mugabe, a 37-year-old resident of Karukara Cell, Karukara Ward in Hamurwa Town Council. The incident occurred on 4th November 2025.
According to police, Mugabe and his wife, Leila Ahimbisibwe Lelia, had been involved in ongoing domestic disagreements.
On the evening of the incident, Mugabe allegedly returned home and started a violent altercation while his wife was preparing supper. During the confrontation, he reportedly attempted to take their one-month-old child from her.
Attempts by Mugabe’s mother to intervene were reportedly unsuccessful, as he allegedly threatened her. Lelia later fled to Hamurwa Police Station, where she reported a case of domestic violence, before seeking medical attention at Kakore Health Centre II.
The following morning, Mugabe’s mother found him sitting outside with the infant. She went to Karukara Trading Centre to seek help in retrieving the child, but on returning home, she discovered that Mugabe had died by suicide.
Elly Maate, the Kigezi Regional Police spokesperson, confirmed that police visited and processed the scene.
“The body was examined and later handed over to relatives for burial. Investigations into the matter are ongoing,” Maate said.
Authorities have urged families to adopt peaceful conflict resolution measures and to seek professional support in addressing domestic disputes.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about domestic violence in communities and the need for accessible mental health and social support services.