Allegations of ritual sacrifice spark violence in Kitagwenda

27 March 2025, 22:35

By Noah Kasangaki Ateenyi

Amarakutunga Levi, a prominent gospel musician and councillor in Kitagwenda District, has been arrested in connection with the alleged ritual murder of his 4-year-old niece, Ainomugisha Tricia. Amid growing tensions, Levi’s house was set on fire, possibly in retaliation for the allegations of ritual killings.

Tensions continue to rise in Kitagwenda district following the arrest of prominent gospel musician and local councillor, Amarakutunga Levi, who is facing murder charges related to the suspected ritual sacrifice of a 4-year-old girl. Levi, who also serves as a representative for persons with disabilities, was remanded to Katojo Government Prison on March 26, 2025, along with four other suspects. They are accused of the murder of Ainomugisha Tricia, Levi’s niece, whose body was discovered in a bush near the village of Nyaruhanda on March 17, 2025.

The tragic incident began when Tricia went missing on March 16, after being sent to a neighbour’s house. Her lifeless body was discovered the following morning, prompting an investigation by local authorities. Police traced the crime to Levi’s residence, located just 300 metres from where the child’s body was found. During their investigation, law enforcement recovered a bloodstained panga near the scene, while further searches at Levi’s home revealed disturbing evidence, including a bucket of bloodstained clothes and blood splashes on a wall.

In a shocking development, Levi’s house was set on fire on the night of March 26, with authorities suspecting that the attack was a retaliatory act linked to the ritual sacrifice allegations. No arrests have been made in connection with the fire, and police are working to determine the cause. Sources suggest that the attack may have been driven by community anger over the murder charges and fears that Levi may have been involved in occult practices.

Ritual killings remain a persistent issue in Uganda, with children being frequent victims due to their perceived innocence and spiritual significance. According to the latest 2024 Uganda Police report, ritual killings have risen in recent years, with 72 cases recorded in 2024, up from 46 in 2021. Experts warn that such murders are fuelled by deeply entrenched superstitions and beliefs in dark practices, making the children of vulnerable families easy targets.

As the case unfolds, authorities are under pressure to address the growing concern over ritualistic crimes and the safety of children in Uganda. Meanwhile, Levi and his co-accused are scheduled to appear in court again on April 14, 2025, for further proceedings.

The investigation into both the ritual murder and the arson attack on Levi’s house remains ongoing, with police urging the public to remain calm and allow justice to take its course.