By Jamillah Kemigisa
Police in Kabonero Sub County have arrested a 36-year-old woman accused of setting fire to the home of her husband’s second wife, in what authorities believe was a domestic dispute turned criminal.
The suspect, Pricilla Kabugho, is the first wife of Mr. Samuel Kinyumu. Both reside in Nyarugogo B, Kabonero Sub County, Bunyangabu District. According to police reports, the incident occurred on Thursday morning while Mr. Kinyumu was working in his garden. At approximately 10:00 a.m., he received a phone call informing him that his second wife’s house was engulfed in flames.
Eyewitnesses allege they saw Kabugho deliberately setting the house on fire. The blaze destroyed several household items, including a television screen, a mattress, clothes, a bed, and various kitchen utensils.
Reacting to the incident, Kinyumu expressed his disappointment with Kabugho’s actions, stating he intends to return her to her parents in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) Fred Muhindo, the Officer in Charge of Kabonero Sub County, condemned the act. He confirmed that Kabugho was taken into custody and that investigations are ongoing. AIP Muhindo also raised concerns over the rising cases of domestic violence in the area. He revealed that incidents of domestic disputes have doubled over the past month, leading to increased family breakdowns, school dropouts, and, in some cases, fatalities.
Growing Concern Over Domestic Violence In Bunyangabu
Domestic violence remains a persistent challenge in Bunyangabu District and other parts of Uganda. Community leaders cite alcoholism, economic hardship, and conflicts in polygamous families as major drivers of domestic tensions that often escalate into violence.
Law enforcement authorities are urging residents to resolve family disputes through peaceful dialogue and mediation rather than resorting to destructive actions. AIP Muhindo appealed to the public to shun behaviors that contribute to domestic violence, such as excessive drinking, idleness, and criminal activity.
Kabugho remains in police custody as investigations continue.
