Kampala Breaking News: Man Arrested Over Valentine’s Day Murder of Teen in Wakiso
KAMPALA, Uganda — 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, in a case that has shocked residents of the Kampala Metropolitan area.
The suspect, Herbert Musasizi, was apprehended 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 in Nansana Municipality.
Valentine’s Day Incident in Wakiso District
According to the Uganda Police Force, 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, Wakiso District.
Preliminary police findings indicate that Bukenya, a student at Hillside Secondary School Matugga, had reportedly gone to visit Musasizi’s 14-year-old daughter at the family residence.
Investigators allege that Musasizi found the teenager inside his house, sparking a confrontation that escalated into a physical assault. Witnesses claim the deceased had previously been warned not to return to the home. On the night of the incident, he is said to have brought a Valentine’s gift for the girl.
Bukenya sustained severe injuries during the alleged beating and later succumbed to them. His body was transported for a postmortem examination as part of ongoing investigations.
Manhunt Ends in Gulu
Following the incident, Musasizi reportedly fled Wakiso District, prompting a coordinated manhunt by security agencies. Police tracked him to Gulu District in Northern Uganda, where he was arrested and transferred back to Wakiso.
Police spokespersons confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be formally charged with murder once investigations are complete.
Community Shock and Calls for Calm
The killing has sparked widespread concern among residents in Wakiso and the greater Kampala area, with community members raising alarm over rising cases of domestic-related violence and disputes involving minors.
Local leaders have urged residents to remain calm as police continue recording statements from witnesses and family members. Authorities have also called on parents and guardians to resolve conflicts through lawful channels rather than resorting to violence.
Legal Process Underway
Under Ugandan law, murder carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment upon conviction. Police say the case file will be submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions once investigations are finalized.
The tragic Valentine’s Day incident has reignited conversations around youth relationships, parental responsibility, and the need for non-violent conflict resolution within communities across Wakiso and Kampala at large.
