Police in Nakasongola District have launched investigations into an incident of suspected murder and suicide following a domestic dispute that turned deadly in Kinoni Trading Centre, Katugo Town Council.
The deceased have been identified as Charity Ritah Mbabazi, a 30-year-old businesswoman, and Patrick Ndibadawa, 44, a cattle trader.
Its alleged that the deceased couple, who had two children together, have been experiencing marital problems and had been living apart since January this year.
"Preliminary information indicates that the deceased had been married but were no longer living together due to domestic misunderstandings," said ASP Sam Twiineamazima, the Savannah Region Police spokesperson.
"The woman had moved out with the children and was operating a small bar in Kinoni Trading Centre."
Its alleged that on Friday, around 11:30pm the day of the incident, Mbabazi filed a case of domestic violence and neglect against her estranged husband.
“The suspect was expressly summoned through the area LC1 chairman who delivered the summons to him that same day,” ASP Twiineamazima confirmed.
However, later that night, tragedy struck.
"We received a phone call at Katugo Police Station from a concerned individual reporting that the woman had been killed by her husband and that he had later committed suicide by hanging himself from a tree," he added.
The police responded quickly to the scene, where both bodies were discovered.
A panga, believed to be the weapon used in the killing, was recovered and taken as an exhibit and the bodies were transported to Nakasongola Health Centre IV for postmortem.
“A case of suspected murder by hacking has been registered. Relevant statements were recorded from witnesses, and further inquiries are ongoing,” ASP Twiineamazima stated.
The incident has caused widespread shock in the community, reigniting concerns over the growing number of domestic violence cases.
Authorities have urged couples facing conflict to seek counseling and mediation instead of resorting to violence.
The police continue to call on members of the public to report domestic abuse