Authorities in Nakaseke District are investigating a tragic incident in which a UPDF soldier killed his wife before attempting to take his own life at Kaweweta Barracks.
The fatal shooting occurred on Monday, March 3, at around 3 p.m., according to a statement by Savannah Region Police spokesperson ASP Sam Twiineamazima.
The victim, Kella Kebirungi Adyeri, was reportedly gunned down by her husband, Lance Corporal Denis Sserunkuma, a UPDF soldier stationed at the Kaweweta Barracks in Kinyogoga subcounty.
Domestic Dispute Leads to Fatal Shooting
Preliminary investigations indicate that the UPDF soldier killed his wife following a domestic dispute. Reports suggest that an argument broke out after Adyeri allegedly refused to prepare a meal for her husband. The situation escalated, leading to gunfire.
Eyewitnesses reported that Adyeri ran out of their grass-thatched house, with Sserunkuma following closely behind, armed with an SMG rifle. He then fired a single shot at her head, killing her instantly.
Soldier’s Suicide Attempt Fails
After the fatal shooting, Sserunkuma attempted suicide by shooting himself in the chin. However, he survived the self-inflicted wound and was found by security personnel.
Investigation Underway
Police officers secured the crime scene, and the firearm used in the attack was recovered. The case has been classified as murder and attempted suicide, with key exhibits taken into military custody for further analysis.
Sserunkuma was rushed to Kaweweta Military Health Centre IV for emergency treatment, while Adyeri’s body was transported to Bombo Military Hospital for a postmortem examination.
Concerns Over Domestic Violence in Military Families
Authorities in Nakaseke, in coordination with the UPDF, have launched an investigation to determine the underlying causes of the tragedy. Mental health challenges and military-related stress factors are being examined as possible contributing elements.
The shocking incident has sparked concerns about domestic violence within military families and the accessibility of firearms in personal disputes.
Security Officials Call for Conflict Resolution Measures
Military and security officials have urged soldiers and their families to seek peaceful conflict resolution methods and use available support systems to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
