Police in Kanungu District have arrested a 26-year-old woman in connection with the tragic death of a two-and-a-half-year-old boy in an incident that has shocked residents of Kihihi Sub-county.
The suspect, identified as Shivan Orishaba, is alleged to have fatally assaulted the child, Salvan Akankwasa, the son of Karimu Nyuga, a resident of Kameme Cell, Kibimbiri Parish.
The incident is reported to have occurred on Friday, with the child later pronounced dead on Saturday, at around 11:30am at Kihihi Health Centre IV.
According to preliminary police findings, the child’s father had previously been living in Rukungiri District with his first wife, the mother of the deceased, before the couple separated.
He later relocated to Kameme village in search of casual work, where he began cohabiting with the suspect for approximately six months.
Two weeks prior to the incident, the father reportedly brought the child to live with him and the suspect. It is alleged that during this period, the suspect subjected the child to severe assault, leading to injuries that required medical attention. Despite efforts to save his life, the child succumbed to the injuries.
Elly Maate, the Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson, confirmed the arrest, noting that swift investigations were launched following the incident.
He added that a postmortem examination was conducted to establish the exact cause of death.
“The suspect has been apprehended as inquiries continue to ensure justice is served,” Maate stated.
Maate condemned the act and urged the public to remain vigilant and report cases of child abuse, emphasizing the importance of protecting children from violence within communities.
