Story by Obed Kankiriho
Police in Rukungiri District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a two-year-old child, allegedly stabbed to death by her 37-year-old biological father in Nyamayenje A Cell, Ndorero Ward, Rukungiri Municipality.
Musinguzi, who had separated from his wife, Namutebi Zainabu Elizabeth, in January, is accused of fatally stabbing his daughter in the neck with a panga. The incident occurred at approximately 5:30 PM, while Owembabazi and her six-year-old sister, Ainomugisha Babra, were under the care of their grandparents, Koshaba Mauda and Turyahabwe John.
According to police reports and witness accounts, Musinguzi arrived at his parents’ home, where the children were staying, and took Rachel to his nearby residence. Moments later, he returned, carrying the child and brandishing a panga. In full view of her sister, he placed the child face-down and inflicted the fatal wound.
Shocked by the gruesome act, Babra ran inside to alert her grandfather, who rushed outside and witnessed the horrifying scene. He immediately informed his wife, Koshaba Mauda, who raised an alarm that attracted neighbors and local authorities, including Byomuhangi Medard, the area chairperson. Medard and other residents apprehended Musinguzi at his house and handed him over to the police.
Maate said that police visited and processed the crime scene, recorded statements from witnesses, recovered the murder weapon (a panga), and transported the body to Rwakabengo Health Center III mortuary for a postmortem examination.
Elly Maate, the Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the suspect’s arrest, stating that he is currently detained at Rukungiri Central Police Station.
