By URN
A Congolese refugee, JeanBatista Deodone Yiwani, has allegedly hacked a 6-year-old girl, Shakurani Malata, to death and critically injured five others. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon in Karuhinda village, Block 15, in the Kyangwali refugee settlement area in Kikuube district. The deceased was a pupil at Maratatu primary school, also located in the settlement area.
The suspect reportedly went on a rampage and hacked the minor several times on the head, face, and neck, killing her instantly. The minor’s parents were not at home when the incident occurred. After hacking the minor, the suspect also attacked five other people, leaving them in a coma.
The victims include Erick Bahati (14), Alpha Emmy (2), Fraha Asante (1), Rebecca Lazuwa (12), and Julijina Mave (39). All were rushed to the Hoima Regional Referral Hospital in critical condition for medical attention. They were hacked on their heads, faces, legs, and hands.
According to Madhelena Tsika, the deceased’s mother, she left her daughter at home playing with her friends as she went for prayers in the nearby church. However, she was informed that her daughter had been hacked to death upon returning home.
The suspect was arrested by area residents who mobilized as he attempted to flee. He was taken to Kyangwali Central Police Station, where he is currently detained. The reason why Yowani attacked and killed the minor and injured the others is not yet known.
The Albertine Region police spokesperson, Julius Hakiza, has confirmed the incident and stated that the suspect will be charged with murder and attempted murder. Additionally, he will undergo a mental health evaluation once investigations are complete.
