What began as a domestic dispute over a shared meal escalated into a horrific act of arson and the tragic death of a 27-year-old man from Ikoga village, according to Gumare Police.
Acting Station Commander Jerry Sabata confirmed that police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the man’s apparent suicide, which occurred while he was being sought for arson and domestic assault.
The tragedy unfolded after the man and his girlfriend spent a night out in Gumare. Upon returning home on the night of 22 September 2025, the girlfriend prepared dinner.
According to police reports, a confrontation erupted when the woman reportedly refused to serve the man his portion of food, despite having dished it out.
“The man was allegedly angered by this act and physically assaulted the woman,” Sabata stated.
The woman fled the scene to report the assault to the police, leaving her irate boyfriend behind.
It is alleged that the man then set fire to his girlfriend’s family home, a two-bedroom house, before fleeing to his home village of Ikoga.
Police launched a search for the suspect, which continued into the following day. However, before they could apprehend him, his family made a grim discovery.
“While the police were searching for him, his family called to report that his body was found hanging from a tree in Ikoga,” Sabata confirmed.
Sabata emphasized that this incident underscores the urgent need to address domestic violence and mental health crises in the community.
He reiterated the police’s appeal to the public to seek help and utilize available resources when facing conflict or emotional distress.
“It is deeply concerning to see cases of gender-based violence occurring in our communities despite ongoing public education efforts. We urge anyone affected by GBV or showing signs of mental instability or those who know someone in need to seek help immediately from the police, a health professional, or a trusted resource,” Sabata said.
