By Robert Segawa
Police have arrested a 43-year-old Kenyan woman over the alleged murder of her two biological children and the attempted murder of three others in a horrific early morning attack that has shocked residents of Kalungu Bunga in Makindye Division.
The suspect, Namayo Dorothy, is currently admitted at Mulago National Referral Hospital under police guard after she was found injured at the scene following the incident, which occurred at around 4:00 a.m. on Thursday.
According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the incident is being investigated as a case of murder, attempted murder and arson.
“Kampala Metropolitan Police South, through Kabalagala Police Division, is investigating a case of murder, attempted murder and arson reported at Kalungu Bunga, Ggaba Parish, Makindye Division,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police said the attack came to light after a housemaid was awakened by an alarm and desperate cries for help coming from the main house.
“The housemaid was awakened by an alarm and cries for help from children in the main house. Upon checking, she found the children with serious injuries and calling for help,” Owoyesigyire explained.
The maid reportedly forced open the house and found several children with severe stab wounds.
Police identified the deceased as Khadija Daizy, 14, who was found dead in her bedroom, and Hawa Dalena, 7, who later succumbed to her injuries while receiving treatment at Nsambya Hospital.
Three other children aged 13, 8 and 5 survived the attack and were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Owoyesigyire said police recovered crucial evidence from the scene as investigations intensified.
“A Toyota Hiace vehicle at the premises was also set on fire and was completely burnt. Police Fire Prevention Rescue Services responded and extinguished the fire, and a jerrycan suspected to have contained petrol was recovered from the scene,” he said.
He added that homicide detectives, Scene of Crime Officers and Fire and Rescue personnel thoroughly documented the scene and collected exhibits for forensic examination.
“Police responded immediately and visited the scene, where homicide detectives, Scene of Crime Officers and Fire and Rescue personnel examined and documented the scene. Exhibits were recovered for forensic examination,” Owoyesigyire noted.
The bodies of the two children were taken to Mulago City Mortuary for postmortem examinations.
Police have since recorded statements from the housemaid and other key witnesses as detectives work to establish the motive behind the attack.
“The suspect remains under police guard as investigations continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and the motive behind the attack,” Owoyesigyire said.
Investigators are pursuing several leads, including reports that the attack may have stemmed from domestic disputes, although police say the exact motive is yet to be confirmed.
