Police in Mbale City are investigating the suspected suicide of a 16-year-old Senior Three student of Mbale High School whose body was found at her family’s home in Industrial Division on Wednesday, June 9, 2026.
The deceased has been identified as Catherine Nelima, also known as Nisha, a resident of Bukisukye Lower Cell, Bumutoto Ward.
According to Elgon Region Police spokesperson SP Rogers Taitika, preliminary investigations indicate the incident occurred during the day while the teenager was at home.
‘It is alleged that the girl’s mother, Jennifer Kanyunyuzi, 39, a businesswoman, had left the children at home and gone to town for work. Upon returning at about 5:00pm, she reportedly found the other children at a neighbour’s residence before making the discovery that prompted her to alert authorities,’ SP Taitika said.
He said police registered the case as a sudden death and immediately dispatched officers from the Homicide Unit and Scene of Crime team to examine the scene and commence investigations.
‘The body was conveyed to Mbale City Mortuary for post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death,’ SP Taitika said. He added that inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the death are ongoing.
SP Taitika urged parents, guardians and schools to pay close attention to the mental health and emotional wellbeing of children and adolescents.
‘We urge members of the public, especially parents, guardians and schools, to remain vigilant about the mental health and well-being of children. Anyone with information that may assist investigations should report to Mbale Central Police Station,’ he said.
The incident has shocked residents and the school community as investigators work to establish what may have led to the student’s death.
According to the Police Crime Report 2025, suicide cases are attributed to complex psychological, social and environmental factors, including mental illness, trauma and extreme stress. A total of 258 cases were registered across the country in 2025. In Elgon Region, where Mbale City is located, 11 cases were recorded in 2025, down from 13 in 2024.