Police in Kampala have arrested Nava Nakato, the wife of city socialite Brian Kirumira, popularly known as Bryan White, following the death of 25-year-old Caroline Nalubwama.
Nalubwama died at Kiruddu Hospital after sustaining severe burns reportedly sustained at Bryan White’s home in Kyamula, Makindye Division. According to White, the injuries occurred after a gas cylinder explosion while Nalubwama was cooking.
However, her family has disputed this account, alleging that the young woman—who had recently returned from Dubai — was romantically involved with the socialite and may have been the victim of foul play. Some relatives suspect that her death could be linked to ritual practices.
Police sources say detectives discovered grass-thatched structures believed to be shrines within White’s compound. The victim’s father, Ssalongo Tom Mutyaba, told investigators that White personally called him to report his daughter’s death while she was allegedly being treated at a shrine.
Following these revelations, police moved the case from Katwe to Natete Division for a broader inquiry. Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said officers are reviewing CCTV footage and medical documents to clarify the circumstances surrounding Nalubwama’s death.
“There are inconsistencies in Mr Kirumira’s statement,” Owoyesigyire said. “He told police that the deceased was burned on 24 October and that he reported the matter on 27 October. Yet evidence indicates she was first admitted to Mabilizi Nursing Home on Entebbe Road on 22 October and remained there until 27 October, when she was transferred to Kiruddu Hospital in critical condition.”
Police further allege that White delayed seeking official help and that Nalubwama’s treatment was withheld due to unpaid hospital bills. “Investigations suggest that he attempted to settle the matter privately, even as her condition worsened,” Owoyesigyire added.
Three other suspects — Daisy Nalunga, Daphne Abaho, and Joyce Irene Nambalirwa, the owner of Mabilizi Nursing Home — have been detained. Nambalirwa faces allegations of negligence and unlawful detention of the patient.
Bryan White, who is currently hospitalised under police watch, has been involved in several controversies in the past. In 2017, he and his bodyguard were charged with attempted murder after allegedly shooting a neighbour, although the case was later dropped. In 2020, he faced accusations of fraud and unpaid debts, including the alleged illegal acquisition of a luxury car.
Police say investigations into Nalubwama’s death are ongoing.
