A 21-year-old woman, Zainab Mulungi, has been arrested on suspicion of killing her one-year-old daughter, Hadija Kabawo, and secretly burying her in Nalinaibi village, Kamuli District.
The tragic incident came to light on Friday, March 14, when relatives and neighbors of Mulungi became concerned after noticing the child’s prolonged absence for two days. When questioned, Mulungi initially claimed that she had taken her daughter to the hospital and was planning to check on her. However, her prolonged absence raised suspicions, and her neighbors began to inquire further.
According to Michael Kasadha, the spokesperson for Busoga North Police, family members began to notice a foul odor near Mulungi’s home on Friday evening. Concerned, they launched a search of the area. Their investigation led them to a suspicious patch of earth, which they believed to be a grave. After involving the local chairperson, they confirmed that it was, in fact, the burial site of the missing child.
The matter was promptly reported to the police, who launched an investigation. “On March 14, at around 9:00 pm, the family’s search led to the discovery of what appeared to be a grave. After further verification, it was confirmed to be the burial site of Hadija Kabawo,” said Kasadha.
Mulungi’s husband, Asuman Kabawo, was reportedly away tending to his other home in Mbulamuti at the time of the incident. Before leaving, he and his wife had sought medical attention for their daughter, who had been ill. Kabawo was unaware of the child’s death until after his return, when he learned of the shocking events.
The police acted swiftly following the discovery. A team of detectives visited the scene, exhumed the body, and transported it to Kamuli General Hospital for a postmortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and further details regarding the circumstances of the child’s death will be established through forensic analysis and witness statements. Kasadha praised the public for their vigilance and the prompt action that led to the discovery of the grave and the subsequent arrest of Mulungi.
“This case demonstrates the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activities. The cooperation of the public played a key role in bringing this case to light, and we commend them for their efforts,” Kasadha said.
As Mulungi remains in police custody, authorities continue their work to piece together the full details of the events leading to the tragic loss of a young life.
