Mbale, Uganda – A debt dispute turned deadly over the weekend when a man allegedly stabbed a local money lender to death over an unresolved loan amounting to Shs 18 million.
The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Simon Wekesa, was arrested on Sunday evening in Busamaga Ward, Northern Division, Mbale City, shortly after the fatal attack. He is currently in police custody at Mbale Central Police Station, facing charges of murder.
According to Elgon Region Police Spokesperson ASP Rogers Taitika, the victim, Paul Bwire, a 47-year-old well-known money lender in the area, was reportedly attacked after demanding repayment of the outstanding debt.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect had borrowed Shs 18 million from the deceased several months ago and failed to meet the agreed repayment terms. A heated argument broke out when Bwire visited Wekesa to follow up on the payment,” ASP Taitika confirmed.
Eyewitnesses say the confrontation quickly escalated into violence. In a fit of rage, Wekesa allegedly picked up a kitchen knife and stabbed Bwire multiple times in the chest and abdomen. The victim bled profusely and died on the spot before any help could arrive.
Police say the murder weapon has been recovered and will be submitted for forensic analysis. The suspect was apprehended while attempting to flee the area.
Bwire’s body was transported to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital Mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents expressing outrage and fear over the increasing number of violent debt-related crimes.
“This is a heartbreaking and senseless act,” said local LC1 chairman Geoffrey Wanyama. “People must resolve disputes legally. Taking a life over money is unacceptable.”
Police have urged the public to seek lawful means for conflict resolution and warned that anyone found engaging in mob justice or retaliatory acts will be prosecuted.
Wekesa is expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court in the coming days as investigations continue.
