The territorial police in Mityana district are currently investigating a tragic incident that occurred yesterday evening November 13, 2023 involving a suspected case of suicide.
According to Rachel Kawala, the spokesperson for Wamala Police, a female teenager whose identity is yet to be confirmed, tragically burned herself to death in her boyfriend’s rented house in the Kivunikide, Bufundi division.
“Preliminary findings indicate the unidentified juvenile burned herself to death at the rented room of her boyfriend, who has been identified as Male Allan. We were informed about the incident. The scene of the crime has been visited by our task teams; the body of a female juvenile was found lying dead inside the room with burnt severe wood all over her body,” Kawala stated.
“At the scene, the bed was not burned by fire, providing evidence that the mattress was carried off from the bed to the floor before a fire was set on it,“ she added.
Suicide among adolescents, particularly those aged 15 to 19 years old, has emerged as a significant public health concern in Uganda. A recent study conducted by Uganda Youth Development Link in 2023 revealed alarming rates of suicide ideation and planning among university students, with rates of 22.3% and 6.1%, respectively.
As investigations continue, local authorities are urging parents, educators, and communities to remain vigilant in monitoring the mental health and well-being of adolescents. The heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and providing appropriate support systems for young people during their vulnerable years.
