Lira, Uganda – Police in Lira City have launched a full investigation into the mysterious death of an unidentified woman, estimated to be about 50 years old, whose body was discovered on Wednesday afternoon, April 30, 2025, at Providence Lodge located next to Te-Obaya Market along Kwania Road, near Oyite Ojok Lane junction in Camp Swahili Ward, City West Division.
The discovery was made after residents and lodge workers noticed a strong foul smell and flies coming from one of the rooms.
According to one of the lodge staff, a man believed to be in a romantic relationship with the woman had checked into the lodge on Monday night and instructed them not to disturb his room under any circumstances.
The deceased body was recovered by police around midday after they were called to the scene.
Preliminary findings revealed that the deceased had visible swellings on her arm and thigh. Blood stains were found on the bed, and the woman’s personal belongings, including a small quantity of fish, were discovered in the room — indicating she may have been involved in fish vending.
The suspect, who reportedly left the lodge on Tuesday, is currently on the run.
According to the lodge owner, Akaa Thomas, the man instructed staff on Tuesday not to open the room, claiming there were important items inside. Ekaa has pledged to work with police to trace the suspect.
The two women working at the lodge have been taken to Lira Central Police Station to record statements.
North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson SP Jimmy Patrick Okema confirmed that he had received reports circulating on social media platforms but said he was still waiting for an official report from the officers who visited the crime scene.
Richard Obote, a preacher formerly serving at St. James Church of Uganda–Kakoge, condemned the incident.
He expressed concern over people choosing to lodge carelessly and warned that such acts could lead to tragic consequences.
Quoting scripture, he said such events may be signs of spiritual and moral decline in society.
The body of the deceased has been taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem as police intensify efforts to identify her and apprehend the suspect.
Authorities are calling on anyone with information that may help identify the woman or locate the suspect to report to the nearest police station.
