Police have launched an investigation into a suspected case of arson and murder after a couple was burnt to death inside their home under mysterious circumstances in Rukungiri District, western Uganda.

The deceased, identified as Isaac Byamukama, 30, a boda boda rider, and his wife, Christine Akatuhurira, 27, were residents of Ncerere Village, Kabinga Parish in Buhunga Sub-county. The incident occurred Saturday morning.

Police say preliminary findings suggest the fire may have been deliberately set, as the couple was found locked inside their bedroom with no means of escape.

“It’s a barbaric act of malicious criminality,” said Elly Maate, police spokesperson for the Kigezi Region.

He added, “We are treating this as a suspected case of arson and murder. Investigations are ongoing.”

According to local authorities, Mr Lawrence Kaganga, the area chairperson, received a call around 11:00 a.m. from a resident, Kariisa, who reported heavy smoke coming from the couple’s home.

“The front door was locked. When we tried calling their phones, both were off,” Mr Kaganga told reporters.

“We broke in through a wooden side fence. The back door was open, but the bedroom door was locked from the outside,” he added.

Despite efforts to rescue them, the couple was found dead, with their bodies severely burnt and all belongings in the room reduced to ash.

Police officers later arrived at the scene, documented evidence, recorded statements from witnesses, and transported the bodies to Rwakabengo Health Centre III for postmortem examination.

No arrests had been made as of Sunday, but police have pledged to leave no stone unturned.

“We call upon anyone with information to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be key to identifying the suspects,” Mr Maate said.

The tragedy has sparked concern among residents and local authorities, coming at a time when violent crimes have become a growing issue in the region.

During a recent case management session at Kabale High Court, Kigezi Regional Police Commander James Kawalya noted that although Rukungiri had registered a reduction in murder cases, from up to six per month to fewer, Rubanda District had emerged as a new hotspot, recording an average of four murders monthly.

He attributed the violence to domestic disputes, land conflicts, and robbery, among other causes, and urged the public to avoid taking the law into their own hands.

“People must resolve grievances through legal and peaceful means,” Mr Kawalya said, adding: “Vigilante justice only breeds further tragedy.”