A 32-year-old man has been found dead in a suspected suicide incident in Bushenyi District after reportedly leaving his home during the night and later being discovered hanging in a nearby coffee plantation.
The deceased, identified as Kato Junior, was a resident of Rwanziro Cell, Kashambya Ward in Bitooma Town Council. His body was found at about 4 a.m. on May 30.
According to police, Kato left his home after telling his wife that he had heard someone outside allegedly stealing his matooke. He, however, did not return.
Concerned by his prolonged absence, his wife went searching for him and later discovered his body hanging from an avocado tree in a nearby coffee plantation.
Greater Bushenyi Police spokesperson Apollo Tayebwa said officers responded to the scene and immediately commenced investigations.
"Police promptly responded, examined the scene, documented evidence, and recorded statements from relevant witnesses. The body was accordingly managed and already handed over to the family to proceed with the burial arrangements," Tayebwa said.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased had reportedly been struggling with mental health challenges for some time.
"Initial findings suggest that the deceased had a history of mental health challenges and had reportedly been prevented from attempting self-harm on previous occasions," Tayebwa added.
Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death are ongoing.
"Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available," Tayebwa said.
The police spokesperson urged families and communities to pay close attention to relatives experiencing mental health difficulties and ensure they receive appropriate support and medical care.
"We strongly urge all members of the general public to always ensure all their family members with suspected mental health issues timely seek necessary medical care to avoid such incidents."
He also extended condolences to the bereaved family.
"We pray for the soul of the deceased to rest in peace as we extend the bereaved family our sincere condolences," Tayebwa said.
