A horrifying double murder near State House in Entebbe has stunned Uganda. David Mutaaga, 69, and his wife Florence Mutaaga, 62, were brutally killed at their home on Plot 17, Research Road, Lugonjo, Nakiwogo Division, around 9:30pm on Sunday. The couple had returned from Europe three years ago to settle into retirement, yet their peaceful life ended in unspeakable violence.
Despite the passage of two days, police have not apprehended any suspect. Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesman Luke Owoyesigyire stated that detectives are working tirelessly to solve the case. He urged the public to remain calm and assured that investigations will lead to justice. The couple’s residence was heavily secured, featuring tall walls, electric fencing, CCTV cameras, and floodlights. Nevertheless, a killer managed to break in and escape without triggering any immediate alert.
Earlier that day, the Mutaagas hosted family friends at their home. The gathering ended by 7pm, and their caretakers locked the compound gate remotely before leaving. At 9:50pm, Florence made a frantic phone call to the caretakers, pleading for help and saying, “Ronald, come back. We’ve been attacked. Daddy has been beaten.” They immediately rushed back using a motorcycle. Upon arrival, they found the gate wide open and David lying motionless on the ground. Fearing for their safety, they ran to the police station to seek help. Police officers responded quickly and escorted them back.
At the scene, police found David already dead. When they entered the house, they discovered Florence in the master bedroom. She had been stabbed multiple times and lay partially undressed. The gate had blood stains, and keys were still in the lock, suggesting a hasty exit by the killer. Inside, investigators noted that the master bedroom window had been broken, and roof tiles had been tampered with, indicating forced entry.
Police deployed a canine unit, which tracked the attacker’s scent only a few meters from the gate before losing the trail. Fortunately, CCTV cameras captured crucial footage. A masked man was seen scaling the wall by climbing an overgrown avocado tree. He moved swiftly and deliberately, showing familiarity with the terrain. He possibly tampered with the roof to gain access. After committing the crime, he calmly exited through the main gate, raising serious concerns about how such a fortified residence could be breached.
Officers retrieved several forensic samples from the crime scene. They transported the bodies to the City Mortuary in Kampala for post-mortem examinations. Although there are rumors that the killer recorded footage of the victims, Owoyesigyire declined to confirm or deny the claim. He stressed that it was too early to release sensitive details while the investigation continues.
Residents were outraged and deeply shaken. Fred Kayigwa Mulindwa, chairperson of Banga Nakiwogo village, said early reports claimed the suspect was armed. Because of this, locals hesitated to approach the house without backup. He contacted Special Forces Command and local police, but by the time they reached the scene, David had already died. They then sealed off the premises to preserve evidence while waiting for law enforcement.
Tadeo Kibirige, the councillor representing Lugonjo-Nakiwogo, voiced his concern about worsening insecurity. According to him, criminals frequently rob residents between 7pm and 6am, often targeting women. These gangs use motorcycles to carry out lightning-fast thefts. Meanwhile, George Semakula, a long-time resident, blamed the crime wave on missing street lights. He explained that criminals now roam in darkness, especially in overgrown areas like Buwaya Rise, where the stolen lights have never been replaced.
This double murder near State House has exposed serious gaps in neighborhood security, even in areas close to power. With the residence just a mile from the President’s home, the ease with which this crime occurred is both shocking and unsettling. The case has ignited public calls for stronger community safety measures, faster police response, and better infrastructure like lighting and patrols.
Police have vowed to continue their investigation without delay. They have promised to analyze all evidence, including digital footage, and are appealing to the public to report any suspicious activity. As the nation mourns the loss of the Mutaagas, this case stands as a grim reminder that even high-security areas are not immune to targeted violence.
Until the killer is caught, the community will remain anxious. However, there is still hope that justice will be served. This devastating event must become a turning point, prompting leaders and citizens alike to demand safer neighborhoods for all.
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