The Joint Security Task Team investigating the brutal murder of Pamela Ruth Tumwebaze, the Director of Students Affairs at Uganda Christian University (UCU), has arrested a key suspect in connection with her killing.
The suspect, identified as Dak Hussien Taewaiko, was apprehended on February 14, 2026, at a hideout in Budaka District. According to security officials, Taewaiko was found in possession of property believed to belong to the deceased, a development investigator has described as a significant breakthrough in the case.
Authorities say the recovered items are suspected to include personal belongings taken from Tumwebaze’s home on the morning she was killed. Investigators believe the discovery provides a crucial link between the suspect and the crime scene.
Preliminary findings indicate that Taewaiko previously worked as a house help for the late Tumwebaze. This revelation has raised further questions about motive, trust, and the circumstances surrounding the murder. Detectives are now examining the nature of his past employment and whether there were prior disputes or warning signs.
The Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Recheal Kawala, confirmed the arrest and emphasised that investigations remain ongoing.
“We have a suspect in custody and several exhibits recovered. Our teams are working diligently to piece together the events that led to this tragic incident. We ask the public to remain patient as we finalise key aspects of the investigation,” Kawala said.
During a memorial service at Uganda Christian University on Friday, the Kampala Metropolitan Police East Commander, Jonathan Musinguzi, addressed mourners and provided an update on the case's progress.
Commander Musinguzi assured students, staff, and family members that security agencies are committed to transparency and accountability.
“We understand the pain and anxiety this community is experiencing. We pledge to keep the nation informed and ensure that justice is served,” he told attendees.
The arrest comes after days of mounting pressure from Tumwebaze’s family, students, the UCU community, and religious leaders who had demanded swift action and clarity regarding the circumstances of her death. Many had also called for authorities to publicly demonstrate how the crime was committed once investigations are concluded.
During the service, the UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, revealed to the mourners that Pamale by the time of her death was in the process of preparing her wedding before the end of this year, and everyone was happy about this great news.
Tumwebaze was killed on Wednesday morning after an assailant allegedly broke into her home, strangled her, and fled with her phone and laptop. The shocking nature of the attack sent waves of grief and fear through the university community and beyond, sparking national concern over safety and security.
Colleagues described her as a dedicated administrator, mentor, and compassionate leader who had devoted years to supporting students’ welfare and spiritual growth at UCU.
Her burial took place today at her ancestral home in Keigoshora, Rubaya, Kashari in Mbarara District, where family, friends, church leaders, and members of the academic community gathered to pay their final respects.
As investigations continue, authorities have reiterated their commitment to delivering justice and ensuring that all individuals involved in the crime are brought before the courts.
