Rubanda, Uganda – A Kabale University student was found dead in an apparent suicide by hanging in Rubanda District, with handwritten notes believed to be a final message discovered near his body.
The deceased has been identified as Mugarura Victor, a 22-year-old first-year student at Kabale University and resident of Hamurara Cell, Nyamiyaga Ward, Bubare Town Council, Rubanda District, whose death occurred on July 24, 2025.
According to reports, Victor had gone missing with his mother’s phone, prompting his family to search for him. Later that evening, his sister attempted to call the missing phone and heard it ringing inside his room. Upon opening the door, she made the grim discovery of his lifeless body hanging from a rope above his bed.
The police were immediately notified, and officers responded to the scene, conducting a thorough examination and documentation.
Witness statements were recorded, and among the key findings were the recovery of the rope used in the incident and short handwritten notes suspected to be suicide messages left beside the body.
Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate confirmed the incident and urged the public to seek help in times of emotional or psychological distress.
“When people have issues of concern, they should always utilize the services of local leaders and relevant offices rather than resorting to terminating their lives, which does not solve anything,” Maate stated.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the contents of the recovered notes as investigations into the circumstances surrounding Victor’s death continue.
Meanwhile, community leaders and mental health advocates are emphasizing the need for increased awareness and accessible counseling services to prevent similar tragedies in the future.