Police in northern Uganda have arrested a man in connection with the killing of his friend following a dispute over roasted bush rat meat in Kitgum District.
The suspect, identified as Okot David, is accused of assaulting 44-year-old Omony Charles during an argument in Tultul Central Village, Mucwini West Sub-county, after allegedly discovering that one of his roasted “anyeri” bush rats had been eaten without his permission.
According to police reports, the confrontation occurred on May 8 and quickly escalated into a physical fight. Omony reportedly sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby health facility, where he was later pronounced dead.
A police source quoted by local media said the disagreement started after the suspect realised that one of his roasted rats was missing.
“The suspect accused the deceased of eating his roasted rat without consent, which sparked a fight between the two,” the source said. (monitor.co.ug)
The accused is currently being held at Uganda Police Force’s Kitgum Central Police Station under murder case reference CRB 281/2026 as investigations continue. Detectives have since processed the crime scene and recorded witness statements.
Police spokespersons in the region urged members of the public to resolve disagreements peacefully and avoid violence over domestic disputes.
“We encourage communities to seek peaceful means of settling misunderstandings instead of resorting to fights that can lead to loss of life,” police said in a statement carried by local outlets.
The unusual circumstances surrounding the incident triggered widespread discussion on social media platform X, where users shared memes, jokes and commentary referencing Acholi culinary traditions.
Others defended “anyeri,” a locally popular delicacy in parts of northern Uganda, while some users reflected on poverty and food insecurity in rural communities.
Cultural commentators noted that bush rats are commonly consumed in several communities across northern Uganda and are considered a traditional source of protein, especially during harvesting seasons.
The case remains under active investigation as police prepare files for submission to the Resident State Attorney.