Toxicology results from the Government Analytical Laboratory (GAL) have ruled out poisoning as the cause of the sudden death of Martha Ahumuza Murari, who collapsed at Mezo Noir bar in Kololo and later passed away at Kampala Hospital on March 21.
Forensic experts at GAL carried out a detailed toxicological analysis using advanced techniques such as chromatography and mass spectrometry on samples taken from Ahumuza’s internal organs.
According to a forensic analyst involved in the investigation, the results showed no traces of toxic substances. The findings were compiled into a formal report and submitted to detectives at the Kampala Metropolitan Police headquarters.
These results have become a crucial factor in steering the direction of the ongoing investigation. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, confirmed that both the postmortem and toxicology reports had been completed and the case file had been reviewed by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Following the DPP’s advice, the two initial suspects—Edward Mugabo, a cashier at Mezo Noir, and his brother Joseph Kalenzi—were released on police bond while investigations continue.
While Onyango did not reveal specific details from the postmortem report, he mentioned that the results were shared confidentially with Ahumuza’s family.
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A family member said that doctors informed them Martha Ahumuza had died due to internal brain bleeding and fluid buildup in her chest, likely caused by excessive vomiting. The GAL’s toxicology report has significantly changed the initial suspicion of poisoning being the cause of death.
The investigation is now focused on finding alternative explanations, with police awaiting further guidance from the DPP.
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Meanwhile, Mezo Noir has assured its customers that it will reopen soon.
The management released a statement saying: "Our hearts continue to go out to the family and friends of our esteemed client for the loss of such a young and fine soul. Following the unfortunate incident, we decided to temporarily close to allow Uganda Police and the relevant justice sector stakeholders to conduct investigations.
"The investigations have found our staff innocent, and they have subsequently been released from police custody. Any contrary rumours in the media are false, malicious, and unfounded, and we ask that you treat them with the disdain and contempt they deserve.
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"We will continue to serve you in our usual safe environment with high-end standards in the entertainment industry. We will inform you of the exact date when we will reopen, but rest assured, it will be very soon."