Onesmus Turyahabwe
KAGADI- A suspected arson attack has left a three-year-old girl dead, and her parents critically injured after their home was set ablaze early this morning in Mabaale Town Council, Kagadi District.
The incident occurred in Mabaale North Cell and targeted the home of Ausi Katatumbwa, his wife, only identified as Sofia, and their child, Atuhura Asirati, all residents of the area. Unknown assailants reportedly used petrol to ignite the house.
According to eyewitness Gloria Asikora, a neighbour, she heard a woman crying out for help from the house. She and her husband initially remained inside, fearing the cries could be linked to a possible attack by thieves in the area. However, when the cries persisted, they decided to go outside and check.
On arrival, they discovered that both the front and back doors of the house had been tightly secured with binding wires, preventing any escape.
Despite efforts by neighbors to rescue the family, the toddler was found already dead, while the parents were pulled out in critical condition.
Reports indicate that the suspected arsonists left behind a handwritten note accusing Ausi Katatumbwa of being a witch, a night dancer, and of engaging in relationships with other men’s wives.
The Chairperson of Mabaale North Cell, Bone Katabarwa, condemned the incident and urged residents to always seek guidance from authorities in case of any misunderstandings to prevent such violent acts.
Meanwhile, Sheikh Hajji Isingoma Muhamadi, the District Khadi for Kibaale Muslim District says such acts are also condemned by the Quran and calls upon people to repent.
By press time, the body of the deceased had been taken to Kagadi General Hospital for a postmortem examination.
The injured parents were initially rushed to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital before being referred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized treatment.
Allan Julius Hakiiza, the Police spokesperson for Albertine South, says that Police have so far arrested two suspects—Sheikh Tibenda Twalib and Aguma Alamanzan, who is reportedly a brother to Ausi Katatumbwa to assist with ongoing investigations.