Joy Biira, a resident of Nabisalu Wasswa Zone in Makindye Division in Kampala, has been detained by the Katwe Policing Division on suspicion of killing her husband, Benson Baluku.
According to Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, preliminary information suggests that on March 26th, 2023, Baluku returned home drunk and started a fight with his wife, accusing her of having extramarital affairs.
During the altercation, Baluku allegedly grabbed Biira by the neck and began to strangle her. In self-defense, Biira is said to have drawn a knife and severed her husband’s genitals. Unfortunately, Baluku bled to death as a result of his injuries.
Enanga commented on the incident, stating that it is a tragic reminder of the reality of domestic violence and its potentially fatal consequences. He also emphasized the importance of seeking help when dealing with marital conflicts and disputes.
As the investigation is ongoing, Biira is being held in custody at Katwe police station.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the East African Community States reported a 48% increase in gender-based violence.
According to the Police Annual Report of 2020, of 18,872 people who were victims of domestic violence, 3,408 were male adults while 1,133 were male juveniles.
The report also stated that a total of 440 people were killed as a result of aggravated domestic violence, of whom, 213 were male adults, and 33 were male juveniles. The reasons given for the cases of domestic violence included the total lockdown of the country that kept families together and which led to many complications and caused friction; disputes over family property; failure to provide for the family; drug and alcohol abuse; and infidelity.