Tugume Byaruhanga Arrested Over Murder, Aggravated Defilement of 6-Year-Old Daughter

Kagadi Police have arrested a man identified as Tugume Fred Byaruhanga, 26, in connection with the murder and suspected defilement of his six-year-old daughter, Kangume Kemigisha.

The incident is believed to have occurred on the night of Monday, July 8, 2025, at around 11:00 p.m., in Kiyonjo Cell, Nyamiti Ward, Muhorro Town Council, Kagadi District.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Tugume had been living with his three children, two boys aged 8 and 4, and the deceased girl, after separating from their mother, who had returned the children to him about three weeks ago.

It is alleged that on the evening of the incident, at around 9:00 p.m., the suspect caused a disturbance at home, prompting his brother, identified as Alitujuna Friday, to intervene. Later, at around 1:00 a.m., Tugume reportedly went to his father’s home and informed him that he had tried to wake his daughter but found her unresponsive. They rushed to the house, only to find the child dead.

The case was reported to the area LC1 Chairman, Birungi Byamukama, who immediately alerted the police.

According to SP Hakiza Julius Allan, the Regional Police Spokesperson for the Albertine region, officers from Muhorro and Kagadi Police Stations responded to the scene. The body was examined and later conveyed to the mortuary for a postmortem examination.

“It was found lying in the suspect’s bedroom with fresh scratch marks around the neck, and the private parts were visibly swollen,” SP Hakiza confirmed, adding that witness statements have been obtained and investigations are ongoing.

SP Hakiza used the opportunity to urge parents and guardians to prioritise the safety and dignity of children in their care.

“We continue to remind parents of their responsibility to protect children from all forms of harm. Acts of violence, abuse, or neglect against children have serious consequences and will be dealt with according to the law,” he said.

The suspect is currently in police custody and is expected to face charges of murder and Aggravated defilement after advice from the State Attorney.