The people of Katunga West in Ntungamo District are in deep shock and grief after the terrible murder of a one-year-old girl. The baby, named Nicole Aryatwijuka, was found dead with parts of her body missing, including her tongue and private parts. The heartbreaking discovery was made on Tuesday evening in a nearby bush, two days after she went missing.
Nicole had gone with her mother to a Sunday church service at Katunga Church of Uganda. While there, she disappeared without a trace. Her family immediately reported the incident to Ihunga Police Station, and the local community joined in a desperate search. Unfortunately, their efforts ended in tragedy when her body was found in a horrifying condition.
Many residents believe this brutal act may be linked to ritual practices, which has sparked fear and panic among parents. With schools now open, some parents are scared to send their children to school, especially those who have to walk long distances alone. Others are even afraid to let their children play outside.
Sulaina Mpirirwe, a concerned resident, said, “We are afraid to send our children to school or even allow them to play outside their homes.”
The Local Council Chairperson of Katunga West, Mr. David Rukundana, spoke at a community meeting on Wednesday. He strongly condemned the murder and called it both disturbing and unacceptable. He asked the police and other security agencies to take the matter seriously and find the people behind this terrible act. He also noted that crime in the area has been rising and urged for stronger measures to protect the community.
“This is a disturbing and unacceptable crime. We need a serious crackdown to restore safety in our community,” Mr. Rukundana said.
Police have said that investigations are still going on, but no arrests have been made yet. Meanwhile, the community continues to mourn little Nicole and live in fear, hoping for justice and a return to peace.
