By Peter Luzinda
KAMPALA
Police have arrested a 41-year-old man who had been on the run following the alleged beating to death of his teenage daughter’s boyfriend in Wakiso District.
The suspect, Herbert Musasizi, was picked up by security operatives in Gulu District on February 20 after days of evading arrest. He is accused of fatally assaulting 18-year-old Martin Bukenya during a violent confrontation at his home.
Incident Details
The incident occurred on the night of February 14, 2026—Valentine’s Day—at around 8 p.m. in Mabanda Cell, Gombe Division, Nansana Municipality, in Wakiso District.
According to preliminary police findings, Bukenya, a student at Hillside Secondary School Matugga, had reportedly gone to visit Musasizi’s 14-year-old daughter. It is alleged that the suspect found the teenager inside his residence, which triggered a confrontation that escalated into a physical assault.
Witness accounts indicate that the deceased had previously been warned by the suspect not to return to the home. On the fateful evening, he is said to have brought a Valentine’s gift for the girl.
Bukenya sustained severe injuries during the beating and later succumbed to them. His body was subsequently conveyed for a postmortem examination to aid investigations.
Manhunt and Arrest
Following the incident, Musasizi reportedly fled the area, prompting a manhunt by the Uganda Police Force. Security agencies tracked him to Gulu District in Northern Uganda, where he was arrested and transferred back to Wakiso to face investigation.
Police spokespersons confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be charged with murder once investigations are complete.
Community Reaction
The killing has sparked shock and debate within the local community, with residents expressing concern over rising cases of domestic-related violence and the handling of disputes involving minors.
Local leaders have called for calm as police continue gathering statements from witnesses and family members. Authorities have also urged parents and guardians to seek lawful means of resolving disputes rather than resorting to violence.
Legal Process
Under Ugandan law, murder carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment upon conviction. Police say the case file will be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions once investigations are finalized.
