In a chilling murder case that has shocked the people of Bwizibwera-Rutooma Town Council in Mbarara District, a 25-year-old woman, Akankunda Ritah, was found brutally murdered in her home on the morning of May 24, 2025. Ritah, a Munyankole by tribe, was a resident of Bwizibwera Cell, and her tragic death has drawn the attention of both the police and the local community.
The incident came to light when a veterinary doctor, Karegyeya Brighton, arrived at the home of Namutebi Jolly in Kabaale to treat her cows. Brighton, 24 years old and a resident of Katete Cell in Rubaaya Sub-county, was shocked when he was met at the gate by a woman identified as Kembabazi Winnie. Winnie informed him that unknown people had killed her sister-in-law, Ritah. Acting quickly, Brighton went to confirm what had happened and found Ritah already dead. He immediately reported the matter to the Bwizibwera Police Station.
In response, a team led by the District Police Commander (DPC), the Officer in Charge (OC) of the station, Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO), detectives, and the Rubindi Canine Unit rushed to the scene. The canine unit, known for its sharp skills, introduced police dog “Honey” to the case. Honey picked up a scent and began tracking through the compound. The dog first led the officers to the toilet of the same home, and from there, moved directly to the house of a worker named Byamukama Javira Mawuruba, a 19-year-old man employed in the home. Interestingly, the dog entered his house and sat down inside, a signal used by police dogs to indicate a positive match.
Based on this lead, the officers were advised to search the toilet where Honey had paused earlier. To their horror, they recovered clothes soaked in fresh blood stains from the pit latrine. Upon examination, these clothes were identified as belonging to Byamukama Javira. This shocking evidence raised serious suspicions about his involvement.
When interrogated by police, Byamukama confessed to a disturbing truth. He admitted that he was paid by Kembabazi Winnie,the same woman who first told the vet about the murder. Winnie, who is Ritah’s sister-in-law, allegedly gave Byamukama money to kill Ritah. It was also revealed that Winnie and Ritah had ongoing conflicts prior to this tragic incident, making the motive behind the crime more believable.
Thanks to the quick action by the police and the invaluable help from the canine unit, the case took a significant turn. Both Kembabazi Winnie and Byamukama Javira were arrested. Key exhibits, including the blood-stained clothes, were taken to Bwizibwera Central Police Station for further management and investigation.
This case serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly family disputes can spiral into deadly violence. The local community remains in shock, and many are demanding justice for Ritah. The police have assured the public that investigations will continue to ensure that all those involved are held accountable for their actions.
