Man Jumps to Death at Skyz Hotel Naguru

Kampala’s Kira Road Police are investigating the suspected suicide of Shukla Chiragkumar, a 35-year-old Indian national. The tragic incident took place on Monday, June 3, 2024, at Skyz Hotel in Naguru, Nakawa Division, Kampala City.

“At approximately 12:30 am, it is alleged that the deceased fell from the fourth floor of the building in front of the hotel entrance, breaking his arm,” reported ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police. “He was promptly removed by hotel staff and rushed to UMC Bukoto, where he was pronounced dead.”

Preliminary investigations by the police reveal that Chiragkumar had checked into room 1402 with an unidentified woman with whom he spent the night.

This incident comes shortly after the city is still grappling with the suicide of prominent digital marketer John Babirukambu at Tagore Apartments last week. Babirukambu’s family disclosed that he had been struggling with depression, prompting mourners to call for increased attention to mental health.

“The church and relevant government organs need to take considerable interest in the issue of mental health,” urged retired Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde, a family friend, during Babirukambu’s church service. “If you have a problem, please ask for help,” he implored mourners.

Rising Suicide Rates in Uganda

Suicide rates in Uganda have been rising in recent years. The country ranks 17th globally for suicide as a cause of death, with 18.67 suicides per 100,000 deaths. In 2019, police processed 456 suicide scenes and reported 223 attempted suicides, indicating a sharp increase in suicide deaths. By 2021, the Uganda Police Crime Investigation Department reported processing 615 suicide scenes.

Mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, are significant factors contributing to the incidence of suicide, according to the World Health Organization.

Owoyesigyire stated that the motive behind Chiragkumar’s death is still under investigation. “The body of the deceased has been transported to the city mortuary at Mulago for a postmortem examination. Further details will be provided as they become available,” he added.