Lira City, Uganda – A shocking incident of alleged torture and humiliation at Mama Shopping Centre / Supermarket in Lira City has drawn national attention, with many demanding justice for Judith Abonyo, the Community Development Officer (CDO) of Agali Sub-County.
The 50-year-old woman, who suffers from a disability and asthma, was subjected to physical abuse by employees of the supermarket after being allegedly accused of theft.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 19th January 2025, when Abonyo visited the supermarket to buy a few items.
After paying UGX 32,000 for her purchase, Abonyo said she asked for her change, but the cashier denied she hadn’t made any payment.
An argument ensued, and Abonyo was reportedly taken to a secluded area within the corridor, where she was subjected to a brutal attack.
In a media briefing today Tuesday, 21st January 2025, Abonyo recounted the ordeal while fighting back tears.
“I paid for my items, but when I asked for the balance, the cashier refused and accused me of not paying. I was taken to a back room where they began torturing me. A girl and a boy took pictures and videos of the whole situation. They even stripped me of my clothes, including my undergarments, claiming that the items I had bought were theirs,” she explained.
The shocking video, which quickly went viral on social media, shows Abonyo being dragged by security personnel and assaulted by the cashier.
Following the assault, Abonyo said that the CCTV footage was reviewed and confirmed that she had indeed made her payment. She was then allowed to leave with the items, but the trauma had already taken its toll.
“They should have reported me to the authorities if they suspected theft, not tortured me in such a cruel way,” Abonyo said. “I am deeply affected. My health is poor, and I have bruises on my hands and body. I am traumatized.”
The case has been reported to Lira Central Police Station under reference number SDRef/49/20/01/2025, and investigations are underway.
Lira City Resident City Commissioner (RCC), Lawrence Egole, addressed the situation in a statement via WhatsApp today, Tuesday, 21st January 2025.
“I am deeply concerned about the unfortunate event that occurred at Mama Supermarket over the weekend. The matter is currently being handled by the police, and I urge everyone to remain calm as the law takes its course,” Egole said.
The assault has sparked outrage among local leaders and human rights activists, who have called for strict accountability and justice.
Abonyo, a respected community worker, has received support from various groups, with many condemning the supermarket’s actions.
Despite efforts to reach Mama Supermarket adminstrators for comment, our reporter was unable to get a response as the phone lines remained busy.
Supermarket employees reported that Abonyo had been caught stealing before, having previously taken a water bottle valued at UGX 50,000. On her return visit, she allegedly stole goods worth UGX 200,000.
Abonyo’s experience highlights the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly and people with disabilities, who are often subjected to unfair treatment and abuse.
As the investigation progresses, the community continues to demand justice, hoping that this disturbing incident will lead to greater protection for citizens against mistreatment.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding human dignity and ensuring that businesses and individuals are held accountable for their actions.
The call for justice for Judith Abonyo is growing, and many are watching closely to see what steps will be taken to prevent such incidents from happening again.
