18-Year-Old Man Murdered in Bar Fight in Rukungiri

Rukungiri: Police in Rubabo, Rukungiri District, are investigating a murder case in which an 18-year-old man was killed following a bar fight at Kihogo Trading Centre in Nyarwanya cell, Burora parish, Nyarushanje sub-county.

The deceased has been identified as Denis Mucunguzi, a resident of the same area. The incident occurred on the night of April 20, 2025, at around 10:00 PM.

According to the Kigezi regional police spokesperson ASP Elly Maate, it is alleged that the deceased was at Vegas Bar, owned by a one Naboth, together with other patrons including Victor, a resident of Ruhuga cell in Rugarama, Ntungamo district. During the night, Victor accused Mucunguzi of stealing a phone belonging to his cousin sister Gloria Ainembabazi, who was also at the bar.

A scuffle broke out between the two, prompting the bar owner to push them outside. The deceased attempted to run away, but Victor reportedly followed him into the corridor of the bar. Moments later, Victor returned in a rush and told his cousin Gloria to leave immediately. She refused to go, insisting she hadn’t yet received her phone.

Victor then sped off on a motorcycle along with another woman identified as Catherine. Curious bar patrons and workers searched the area and found Denis Mucunguzi lying dead in a pool of blood in the corridor.

The deceased’s brother, Sam Tumwesigye, was alerted and he informed the Kihogo trading centre chairperson, who then notified the police.

Police registered a case of murder at Rubabo Police Station. A team of homicide detectives and a scene of crime officer visited the scene, recorded statements, and took the body to Rwakabengo Health Centre III for a postmortem examination.

Residents arrested Gloria Ainembabazi, who is now in police custody to assist with investigations. Meanwhile, Victor and other suspects are still on the run.

Police say investigations are ongoing.