Police in Namutumba District are investigating a suspected murder by poisoning following the death of a two-year-old boy in Bunyekero Village, Busini Parish, Nabweyo Sub-county.

The suspect, identified as Naigaga Apofia, 28, and a resident of the same area, is alleged to have administered rat poison to her biological son, who later died while being transferred to hospital for further treatment.

According to police, the child was initially rushed to Nsinze Health Centre IV before being referred to Iganga General Hospital. However, he reportedly died before reaching the hospital.

Police responded to the incident, recorded statements from witnesses and conveyed the body to Iganga General Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination. A sample was also secured for toxicological analysis to establish the suspected cause of death.

Busoga East Regional Police spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha confirmed that the suspect had been arrested and was being detained at Namutumba Central Police Station to assist with investigations. Preliminary inquiries indicate that the incident may have been linked to unresolved domestic misunderstandings between the suspect and the father of the deceased child.

Police condemned the incident and urged parents and couples to resolve domestic disputes peacefully rather than resorting to violence, particularly against children.

“We call upon parents and couples to seek peaceful means of resolving domestic disputes through local leaders, probation offices and the Police Child and Family Protection Unit rather than resorting to violence, especially against innocent children,” Kasadha said. Police investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.