Father Arrested for Allegedly Killing His Two-Year-Old Daughter in Rukungiri

Rukungiri: 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 Southern Division.

The deceased, identified as Rachel Owembabazi, was murdered on February 17, by her father, Willy Musinguzi, a resident of Nyamayenje A Cell, Ndorero Ward, Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality.

According to police reports, the incident occurred at around 5:30 PM. Investigations reveal that in January 2024, Musinguzi separated from his wife, Namutebi Zainabu Elizabeth, who left their two children, Ainomugisha Babra (6 years old) and Owembabazi Rachel (2 years old), in his custody.

Since then, the children had been under the care of their grandparents, Koshaba Mauda and Turyahabwe John.

On the fateful day, while the two children and their grandparents were inside their house sorting groundnuts, Musinguzi arrived, picked up Rachel, and took her to his home while Babra remained at the doorway watching.

Moments later, he returned holding a panga and carrying Rachel. Upon reaching the compound, he placed the child face-down and fatally cut her neck.

Shocked by the gruesome act, Babra ran inside, alerting 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.

The Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate, confirmed the suspect’s arrest, stating that he is currently detained at Rukungiri Central Police Station.

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.

CUE IN MAATE….ON THE ARREST….RR/ENG//