The family of David Baagala Mutaaga and Deborah Florence Naizuwa Mutaaga has appealed for privacy and patience from the public as speculation swirls around the double murder of the couple in Entebbe's Lugonjo-Nakiwogo neighbourhood.
In a statement issued on July 9, the Mutaaga and Nabeta families confirmed the deaths and said they are fully cooperating with police investigators but will not comment further on the matter at this time.
"It is with profound sorrow and heartbreak that the Mutaaga-Nabeta families announce the tragic passing of our beloved David Baagala Mutaaga and Deborah Naizuwa Mutaaga," the statement read.
"We kindly request privacy as we come to terms with this devastating loss."
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The couple was found dead inside their home in the early hours of July 6. Police confirmed that both victims bore stab wounds to the chest and signs of forced entry were observed at the house.
CCTV footage reportedly captured unidentified assailants scaling the perimeter wall and heading toward the master bedroom.
The murders have drawn significant public attention, with multiple sources suggesting the crime may be linked to a long-standing property dispute within the extended family.
According to police sources familiar with the case, David Mutaaga had inherited land from his late father, which is now at the centre of emerging tensions.
The couple's children are said to be living abroad and have not yet returned to Uganda.
"There are disputes about burial arrangements and control of the property," a senior investigator said, noting that the murders may have been orchestrated by individuals familiar with the victims.
Initial reports indicate that the attack may have been premeditated. One of the family's domestic workers, Ronald Golooba, told police he found the house in disarray and alerted authorities, who arrived to discover the bodies.
The assailants are believed to have exited through the main gate after the crime.
Deborah's body was reportedly found partially undressed, though police have not confirmed whether sexual assault is suspected.
No arrests have been made as of July 9, but police have pledged a full investigation into the killings. A sniffer dog lost the scent trail near the gate, raising suspicions that the attackers fled by vehicle.
In the meantime, the grieving family is urging the public and media to refrain from speculation and allow space for mourning.
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"We are grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the wider community. We kindly ask for compassion and understanding as we seek answers and process this immense loss," the family added in their statement.
The murders have raised renewed concern over escalating cases of violence tied to property disputes, particularly among Ugandans returning from abroad to re-establish themselves.
The Mutaaga case remains under investigation by the police's criminal intelligence and homicide departments. Authorities have asked anyone with relevant information to report to the nearest station.
