Police in Ibanda District, Western Uganda, are investigating the death of a 35-year-old teacher found hanging in the compound of Oxford Secondary School.
Emmanuel Turyahebwa, a Kiswahili teacher and resident of Mugarama II cell, Katembe parish, Rukiri Sub County, was discovered hanging on a mango tree early on December 24, 2024.
Rwizi region police spokesperson, Samson Kasasira, stated that Turyahebwa’s behaviour the day before his death appeared unusual.
“It is alleged that Turyahebwa was not himself the day before he was found dead. He was heard talking about uncoordinated stuff,” Kasasira said, adding that his body was transported to Ruhoko Health Centre IV for a postmortem examination.
A source, who requested anonymity, suggested the teacher may have taken his life due to financial frustrations, particularly the absence of his salary this month.
The source added that Turyahebwa worked part-time at other schools, including Ibanda Alliance Secondary School.
Elly Kasigire, a director at Alliance Vocational School, recalled Turyahebwa as a former student and described him as a dedicated teacher.
“This young man studied from here from his senior one to senior six. He has been a good teacher. He didn’t have any issues with us, neither did we have anything against him,” Kasigire stated.
The incident has left the community in shock, with many seeking answers about the circumstances leading to the teacher’s tragic death.
