Man Dies by Suicide Following Domestic Dispute in Rubanda
Police in Rubanda District are investigating a tragic incident in which a 37-year-old man died by suicide following a domestic altercation with his wife.
The deceased, identified as Barnabas Mugabe, a resident of Karukara Cell, Karukara Ward in Hamurwa Town Council, was found hanging in the corridor of his bedroom on November 4, 2025 at around 9:30am. The incident was confirmed by ASP Elly Maate, the Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson.
According to police, Mugabe and his wife, Ahimbisibwe Lelia, had been experiencing long-standing domestic disagreements. On the evening prior to the incident, Mugabe reportedly returned home and found his wife preparing supper. He is said to have removed the food from the fire before it was ready, leading to an argument that escalated into a physical fight. During the scuffle, he allegedly forcefully took their one-month-old baby from the mother.
The deceased’s mother attempted to intervene, but Mugabe allegedly threatened to harm her if she interfered. Fearing for her safety and that of the child, the wife ran to Hamurwa Police Station where she reported a case of domestic violence before proceeding to Kakore Health Centre II for treatment.
Police reports further indicate that on the following morning, Mugabe’s mother saw him sitting outside with the crying baby. She rushed to the nearby trading centre to seek help from neighbours to rescue the infant. However, by the time they returned, Mugabe had already taken his own life.
Police examined and documented the scene, and the body was later handed over to relatives for burial. Authorities say investigations into the matter are still ongoing.
ASP Maate urged families to seek help from community leaders, counsellors, or police when dealing with domestic conflicts to prevent such tragedies.
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