Mukono moneylender stabbed to death by client over Shs 18m loan

A well-known moneylender in Seeta Bajjo, Mukono Municipality, has been stabbed to death by a client who allegedly owed her Shs 18 million.

The deceased, Hamida Mutesi Nalule, aged 35, was reportedly murdered by Elvis Katabaazi, 26, whom she had loaned the money last year. According to Racheal Namwanje, a friend of the deceased, Katabaazi had repeatedly avoided repaying the loan, prompting Nalule to consider involving police or legal authorities.

On Wednesday, Katabaazi allegedly lured Nalule to Nabuti village, under the pretext of resolving the matter before the area LC I chairperson. He claimed he was ready to sign over his house as repayment for the debt.

“I know Katabaazi, and I was around when he took Shs 18 million from her. Katabaazi called her to say that he wanted the matter to be resolved by signing an agreement giving out his house as payment for the loan at the chairperson’s office,” Namwanje said.

Unaware of the deadly trap, Nalule drove Katabaazi to Nabuti in her Toyota Fielder, registration number UBR 959B. Upon arrival, they reportedly found that the chairperson was not at home. Katabaazi then persuaded Nalule to wait.

At around 5 p.m., he suggested another location where the chairperson might be found, leading them to Nyenje road. A few metres off the main road, Katabaazi allegedly attacked Nalule, stabbing her multiple times in the neck and chest.

Witnesses say Nalule managed to stagger out of the vehicle, screaming for help but collapsed and died about 10 metres from her car. Luke Owoyesigyire, deputy spokesperson for the Kampala Metropolitan Police, confirmed the arrest.

Katabaazi used a machete to stab Nalule. The weapon has been recovered, and he is being held on murder charges, Owoyesigyire said.

“Katabaazi is now being held on murder charges. We thank the locals who apprehended him as he was running away. We are collecting all the necessary evidence, and he will be arraigned in courts of law.”

Nalule’s killing has shocked the Seeta community, where she was well known in financial circles. Police say statements have been recorded from eyewitnesses, and further forensic evidence is being collected.