Lira, Uganda | Police in Lira District are investigating a gruesome murder that has left a family and the local community in shock.
The deceased, Atoo Evaline, 39, a peasant farmer and resident of Alit Village, Apingmo Parish, Awiodyek Subcounty, reportedly died on the evening of 26th February 2026 after being stabbed by her husband, Olungu Bonny, who remains at large.
According to the North Kyoga Regional Police, preliminary investigations indicate that the incident stemmed from a dispute over a mobile phone.
The deceased had handed the phone to her son, Okori Gilbert, and his friend, Anyap Solomon, to purchase data and download music. When she later requested it back, her husband allegedly refused to return the device.
Police reports indicate that the suspect, upon discovering photos of two men on the phone, later identified as the son and his friend, smashed the phone and allegedly stabbed his wife below the left rib cage when she tried to retrieve it.
The victim was rushed to Emmanuel Medical Clinic Corner Amach, but she was pronounced dead on arrival before medical personnel could attend to her.
The scene of the crime was secured and documented by officers from Wiodyek Subcounty Police Station, supported by the homicide team from Lira Rural CPS and Scenes of Crime Officers (SOCO).
Investigators recovered the suspected murder weapon and recorded statements from witnesses. The body has been taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examination.
Police called on the public to help trace the suspect, warning against all forms of domestic violence and urging families to seek lawful solutions to disputes. They also advised that the suspect should report himself to any police station for statement recording and other legal processes.
Authorities further stressed that domestic violence remains a serious concern in Lira District and highlighted the importance of community awareness and timely intervention to prevent similar tragedies.
SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, Public Relations Officer, North Kyoga Region, issued the statement.
