Police Probe Death of ISBAT University Graduate Martha Ahumuza Murari

Kira Road Police Station has launched a full investigation into a suspected case of poisoning that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning at Mezo Noir, a popular upscale bar located in the Kololo neighbourhood of Kampala.

The incident involves the late Martha Ahumuza Murari, a 23-year-old fresh graduate from International Business, Science And Technology (ISBAT) University.

According to preliminary police reports, Martha met her friend Mugabo Edward, a cashier at the bar, at around 2:00 AM on March 20. The two reportedly drank together until approximately 3:30 AM, after which they moved to the manager’s office—a room notably not covered by CCTV surveillance.

Moments later, Martha allegedly collapsed inside the office. Mugabo then alerted his brother, Kalenzi Joseph, and the two rushed her to Kampala Hospital, where she was immediately placed on life support. Tragically, she was pronounced dead later that day.

SSP Patrick Onyango, the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, said both Mugabo Edward and Kalenzi Joseph have since been arrested to assist with the ongoing investigation and are currently being held at Kira Road Police Station. Authorities have not yet released the cause of death pending a toxicology report and post-mortem examination.

“We are treating this as a suspected poisoning case and are carefully examining all circumstances surrounding the incident,” said SSP Onyango in a brief statement released on Friday.

News of Martha’s death has left family, friends, and the broader community in shock and mourning.

Born on February 13, 2002, Martha Ahumuza Murari is remembered as a vibrant young woman, full of potential and warmth. Her sudden and tragic death has triggered an outpouring of grief across social media and among her peers.

She will be laid to rest today, Sunday, March 23, 2025, in Nyarubanga, Mbarara district in Western Uganda.