By Jamillah Kemigisa
Police in Rukungiri District have launched an intensive investigation into a suspected arson attack that claimed the lives of a young married couple in Ncerere Village, Kabinga Parish, Buhunga Sub County.
The victims—30-year-old Isaac Byamukama, a boda boda rider, and his wife, 27-year-old Christine Akatuhurira—were found burnt beyond recognition in their bedroom under circumstances authorities have described as highly suspicious.
The horrifying incident occurred around 11:00 a.m. on Sunday. According to eyewitnesses, smoke was seen pouring from the couple’s residence, and repeated phone calls to both victims went unanswered, prompting alarm. Neighbors forced entry into the house through the back door and broke into the bedroom, where they discovered the charred bodies of the couple among scorched furniture and burnt belongings.
Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson Elly Maate confirmed the incident and revealed that preliminary findings point to possible foul play.
“This is not just a tragic fire incident. The fact that the house was locked from the outside suggests foul play,” Maate stated. “We are treating this as a suspected arson case. A forensic team has been deployed, and investigations are ongoing to determine the motive and those responsible for this heinous act.”
The deaths have sent shockwaves through the small, close-knit community where the couple was widely known and respected. Relatives and neighbors gathered at the scene in anguish, demanding swift justice.
Byamukama was described as a hardworking and friendly boda boda rider, while Akatuhurira was known for her quiet demeanor and devotion to her family. Their sudden, violent deaths have left the community reeling and raised questions about rising insecurity in rural areas.
Police have appealed to the public for any information that may assist in the investigation. The bodies have been transported to Rwakabengo Health Centre III for postmortem examinations.
As detectives work to piece together the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, local residents remain anxious, with many fearing this incident could be part of a broader pattern of rural violence.
Authorities have called for calm and assured the public of their commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
