A woman identified as Rose Tumusiime has been named as the first suspect arrested in connection with the alleged murder of veteran Ugandan musician and co-founder of Afrigo Band, Matovu Moses.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Kawala Racheal stated in a statement that Mr Moses was leaving an apartment with Ms Tumusiime, who is alleged to be his girlfriend on Thursday morning when he was attacked by a male assailant.

The police described the attacker as Ms Tumusiime’s ex-lover, stating that it was unclear on how the altercation started, noting that the male suspect allegedly fled the scene after the incident. 

“Preliminary investigations indicate that at approximately 5:30 a.m., the deceased went to the residence of his girlfriend. 

“It is alleged that as he and the lady were leaving the residence, they were confronted by a male suspect who is also alleged to have previously been in a relationship with the same lady,” the statement said. 

The MBU Uganda, however, reported that an eyewitness said the male suspect, who has been positively identified by police but unamed, was the one who initially confronted Mr Moses before punching him.

It was gathered that the punch caused the 77-year-old singer and saxophonist to fall and hit his head on the ground. He was rushed to Kibuli Hospital on a motorcycle but succumbed to his injuries, which authorities said were “serious”.

The incident subsequently led to the arrest of Ms Tumusiime, who police said remained in custody and was assisting authorities with the investigation. Kampala police also said efforts were underway to apprehend the main suspect.

“The female suspect remains in police custody and is assisting detectives with the ongoing investigations. The male suspect has been positively identified and is believed to have fled the scene. 

“Police are actively pursuing him to facilitate his arrest and assist in establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” the police added. 

Galaxy TV Uganda reported that Mr Moses’ final rites and burial are scheduled for Friday in Kyanja. Preparations have reportedly commenced at Kibuli Mosque in Kampala District for the singer’s official vigil. 

Footage seen by the Peoples Gazette showed mourners gathering at a mosque awaiting the arrival of the body of the deceased, reportedly taken to the Mulago Hospital for postmortem examination.