The Uganda Police Force has confirmed the arrest of one suspect in connection with the murder of a 61-year-old woman in Kassanda District. The incident has shocked residents and raised concerns over land-related conflicts.
The deceased, identified as Nalugwa Phoebe, was a resident of Kizibawo Village in Bukuya Subcounty. She had been involved in a long-standing land dispute that was being handled in court.
According to police, Nalugwa had a case in the Mubende Chief Magistrates Court against individuals who are now suspected to be behind her death. The dispute had reportedly caused tension for some time.
Local residents revealed that the deceased had previously received threats. The suspects allegedly warned her that if the court ruled in her favor, she would face serious consequences.
Police records show that Nalugwa had reported two separate cases of threatening violence. These were filed at Kassanda and Mubende police stations and were already before court.
Last month, the court delivered its judgment in her favor. It also ordered a government surveyor to visit the disputed land on April 18, 2026, to carry out official measurements.
However, before the process could take place, tragedy struck. In the early hours of April 6, 2026, unknown attackers broke into her home.
The assailants reportedly entered her bedroom while she was asleep. They attacked her using a sharp object, causing severe injuries to her head and left arm.
The attackers fled the scene, leaving her fatally injured. By the time she was discovered, she had already passed away.
Her body was found the next morning by Nalutaaya Grace, who had gone to pay her money for coffee she had supplied. After calling out to her and getting no response, she entered the house and made the discovery.
Nalutaaya quickly alerted the area LC1 chairman, who reported the matter to Bukuya Police Station. Authorities responded immediately to the scene.
A team from Kassanda Central Police Station reinforced the local officers and began investigations. They documented the scene and gathered initial evidence.
The body of the deceased was later taken to Kassanda Health Centre IV for postmortem examination. This will help establish more details about the cause of death.
Police have since arrested Kakooza Ronald, aged 60, who was involved in the court case with the deceased. He is currently in custody to assist with investigations.
Two other suspects are still on the run. Police have launched a manhunt and are working to bring them to justice.
Authorities say that if evidence confirms their involvement, the suspects will be formally charged in court. The case is being treated as a serious criminal matter.
The Wamala Regional Police spokesperson, L Kigozi, has urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigations.
He also warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands. He emphasized that disagreements with court rulings should be addressed through legal appeals.
The incident highlights the dangers of unresolved land conflicts in communities. Many such disputes have led to violence when not properly managed.
As investigations continue, the community is mourning the loss of Nalugwa Phoebe. Her death serves as a painful reminder of the need for peace, respect for the law, and proper conflict resolution.
