New information has come to light surrounding the death of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Julius Ahimbisibwe, whose body was discovered inside a septic tank at his home in Nakitokolo Cell, Kisozi Parish, Kyengera Town Council, Wakiso District.
Authorities suspect that Ahimbisibwe may have died by suicide following ongoing domestic tensions with his wife, Anitah Ahimbisibwe. According to neighbors, he had vacated the residence in March 2024 after a violent altercation during which he allegedly shot and wounded her.
He is said to have returned to the home on Good Friday, just a few days before his death, and reportedly began making threats to harm both himself and his wife.
A neighbor, speaking anonymously, recalled: “Anitah told me he had come back, but his behavior was worrying. She was afraid he might hurt himself.” On Easter Monday, his body was discovered floating in a septic tank at the back of the house. Initial investigations suggest he may have attempted to hang himself, but the cloth likely snapped, causing his body to fall into the tank.
Mr. Ashraf Ssemogerere, the area defense secretary, said he received a call around 2:30 am from a neighbor named Abdul, who reported that Ms. Ahimbisibwe had come to his door in tears, claiming her husband had taken his own life.
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Ssemogerere contacted the local chairperson, Mr. Augustine Walakila, and together they went to the scene, where they found the body floating. The fire brigade was later called to drain the tank and assist in retrieving the body.
Forensics officers secured the scene and transferred the remains to the city mortuary at Mulago. Three locals were taken to Nsangi Police Station to aid investigations. Ms. Allen Namande, the local women’s secretary, said the council was unaware of the couple’s continuing domestic troubles.
“We thought they had resolved their issues after he moved out,” she said.
Police spokesperson Mr. Rusoke Kitumwa confirmed the case, noting that it was recorded as a suspected suicide. Officers documented witness statements and transported the body for postmortem analysis.
Rising Suicide Cases
Uganda is experiencing a troubling rise in suicides. The 2024 Annual Police Crime Report recorded 218 cases last year—up 26 percent from 165 cases in 2023.
CID Director Tom Magambo pointed to domestic abuse, mental health issues, and financial stress as leading contributors.
Security officers, in particular, are increasingly vulnerable to mental health crises, given their high-stress roles. Extended hours, frequent exposure to violence, and time away from family significantly increase psychological stress.
While the Uganda Police Force has a Welfare and Counselling Unit, its capacity is limited. Some officers receive help from sporadic NGO programs and awareness campaigns, but mental health services remain patchy.
Stigma and concerns over confidentiality also discourage many from seeking help, fearing it may harm their careers or reputation. Compounding the problem, there is a shortage of mental health professionals embedded within police and military units.
Other Recent Incidents
In January 2025, Police Constable John Kanene, attached to Kasese Central Police Station, reportedly died by suicide after shooting himself inside his barracks room. The motive remains under investigation.
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