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Manhunt for ex-husband accused of killing wife over Sh50,000 ($19) dispute
What you need to know:
- The fatal attack took place on 10 March 2025, leaving the local community in shock and mourning. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspect, identified as Athumani Mussa, also known as Bartez.
Dar es Salaam. A tragic incident has shaken the residents of Kibonde Maji B, Temeke in the city where a man is accused of killing his wife, Paulina Mathias, 40, following a dispute over household finances.
The fatal attack took place on 10 March 2025, leaving the local community in shock and mourning. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspect, identified as Athumani Mussa, also known as Bartez.
When The Citizen sought a response from Dar es Salaam Regional Police Commander Jumanne Muliro, he directed inquiries to Temeke District Police Commander, Mr Kungu John Malulu. However, Malulu said that the regional police would soon issue an official statement regarding the case.
The dispute
Paulina’s younger sister, Happy Athumani, recounted the events leading up to the tragedy. She revealed that tensions between the couple escalated after Mussa requested money from Paulina’s savings in her Village Community Bank (Vicoba) group to pay their rent.
"Paulina had saved Sh50,000 and agreed to lend it to him but insisted he repay it later," Happy explained. However, Mussa returned with only Sh48,000, which Paulina refused to accept, demanding that he add the remaining amount from his own savings.
Frustrated by the dispute, Paulina decided she would no longer lend him money. Mussa allegedly became aggressive, threatening her with dire consequences.
Escalation
Following their separation, Mussa moved to his family’s home in Temeke Mikoroshini, about six kilometres away. When Paulina reached out in an attempt to resolve their issues, Mussa reportedly declared that their marriage was over, claiming he had issued three verbal divorces since February.
Determined to move on, Paulina secured a job near the ferry terminal in early March. Upon learning of her new employment, Mussa allegedly began stalking her.
On the day of the attack, Paulina was preparing for work when Mussa ambushed her in the bathroom, violently assaulting her. Witnesses later discovered her body covered in knife wounds. Her child, present during the attack, witnessed the horrifying scene.
Local leader Mr Chawata Luhoga confirmed that the couple’s relationship had been marred by previous incidents of domestic violence.
“The conflict began when Mussa asked for Sh50,000 for rent. After their separation, he continued to harass her,” Mr Luhoga said.
He added that Paulina’s father had alerted community leaders about the escalating violence. "By the time we arrived at the scene, it was too late. She had already passed away," he lamented.
Authorities are currently working with the community to track down Mussa, who remains at large.
Stay with The Citizen for further updates on this developing story.
