The Luweero District Police Commander, Brighton Ahimbisamukama, confirmed that Babirye’s husband, Dickson Mwesigwa, had been arrested and is being held at Bombo Police Station. He is expected to be transferred to Central Police Station as investigations continue.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and police in Luweero District are investigating the death of Corporal Christine Babirye in a suspected arson attack linked to domestic violence.
Babirye, who was attached to Bombo Military Hospital, died on Sunday morning after sustaining severe burn injuries. The incident occurred at her home in Mpakawero-Lufuula village at around 10:00 p.m. on Saturday.
According to local leaders, neighbours were alerted by thick smoke coming from the house and rushed to the scene. They broke into the residence and rescued Babirye with critical burns before taking her to Bombo hospital, where she was pronounced dead at about 4:00 a.m.
Preliminary findings indicate that Babirye may have been locked inside the house before it was set on fire.
The Luweero District Police Commander, Brighton Ahimbisamukama, confirmed that Babirye’s husband, Dickson Mwesigwa, had been arrested and is being held at Bombo Police Station. He is expected to be transferred to Central Police Station as investigations continue.
Authorities say Mwesigwa will be charged in accordance with the law upon completion of inquiries.
James Mulambuzi, the LC I chairperson of Mpakawero-Lufuula village, said the couple had reportedly been experiencing domestic disputes, including allegations of extramarital affairs and disagreements over land ownership.
Investigators are now focusing on reconstructing the events leading up to the incident as part of efforts to establish the exact circumstances surrounding Babirye’s death.
The case has renewed concerns about the prevalence of domestic violence in Luweero District. According to the 2024 Annual Crime Report, the district recorded 287 cases of domestic violence, ranking fifth nationally.
Police say investigations are ongoing.
