Kitagwenda Mortician Under Investigation Over Extortion from Bereaved Families

The mortician is accused of demanding payments from grieving families to prepare deceased loved ones for postmortem and burial.

The Police in Kitagwenda District have launched investigations into allegations of extortion againsrt a mortician at Ntara Health Centre IV.

The mortician, whose identity is withheld as the matter is still under investigation, is accused of demanding payments from grieving families to prepare deceased loved ones for postmortem and burial.

The mortician was on Tuesday detained at Kitagwenda Central Police Station after a family reported him to authorities, claiming he demanded a fee before releasing the body of their relative.

The arrest was confirmed by Kitagwenda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nicholas Nuwagira, who stated that Twinomujuni has allegedly been involved in this practice for a prolonged period.

"We have received multiple complaints from families who claim the mortician demands payments ranging from Shs200,000 to Shs300,000 before working on the bodies or releasing them," Nuwagira said.

"This behavior is unacceptable, especially in a public facility where such services should be provided free of charge," he added.

The incident that prompted the mortician's arrest involved a family that brought a deceased relative to Ntara Health Center IV for a postmortem, only to be asked for money.

"This was the last straw," Nuwagira explained. "People are already mourning, and it's wrong to exploit them at such a vulnerable time," he added.

According to the RDC, the mortician’s alleged actions have stirred community outrage, as families already struggling financially are further burdened by these unexpected costs.

"Public officers should serve with integrity and compassion, especially in sensitive situations like death," he emphasized.

"Let this serve as a warning to other officials who think they can take advantage of people," he noted.

Speaking to the Nile Post, the mortician admitted to asking families for payments but defended his actions by citing a lack of enough supplies in the mortuary.

"We often lack essentials like formalin and super glue, among others, which are necessary for preparing the bodies," he explained.

"Without these supplies, I have had to ask families to contribute toward the costs so that I can do my job properly."

RDC Nuwagira, however, was unconvinced by this explanation, stressing that public funds should cover such expenses.

"We understand the challenges within the health sector, but that does not justify any officer demanding money from the public for services that should be free," he asserted.

"If there are resource shortages, the proper channels must be followed to address them," he noted.

As the investigation progresses, local leaders have called for increased oversight and accountability among healthcare workers in the district.

"This case highlights a troubling issue within our health facilities," said a district leader who wished to remain anonymous.

"We must ensure that all staff understand their responsibilities and the importance of empathy, especially during such difficult times for families."

The mortician has been released on police bond as investigations continue.