Police Investigate Fatal Panga Attack Over Wage Dispute in Kiboga

What the report says

Police in Kiboga District are investigating a fatal attack that left 22-year-old Akiram Golooba dead after an alleged dispute over unpaid wages. According to Nile Post, the incident happened on August 6, 2026, in Kyomya Sub-county, where Golooba was with his wife, Gloria Naggawa, preparing logs for charcoal burning when he was confronted by a casual labourer he had reportedly employed.

Wamala Region Police spokesperson SSP Lameck Kigozi said the suspect, identified only as Fabulisi, a Burundian national, allegedly accused Golooba of failing to pay him for work done before attacking him with a panga. Police said Golooba suffered a fatal neck injury and collapsed at the scene. The suspect also allegedly dragged the victim’s wife toward the village chairperson’s home while still demanding payment.

The matter was reported by Kyomya B Local Council I chairperson Sulaiman Muwonge and later transferred to Bukomero Police Station, where homicide detectives took over. Investigators documented the scene, recovered a panga believed to have been used in the killing, and sent the weapon for forensic analysis. The suspect is in custody as police continue to record witness statements and review the circumstances of the case.

The killing has prompted police to urge employers and casual workers to handle wage disputes calmly and communicate clearly to avoid violence. More broadly, the case reflects recurring concerns in Uganda and elsewhere about how small labour disagreements can escalate when there is no timely resolution or formal payment arrangement.