Gulu, Uganda | The Police in Gulu City have issued a clarification regarding the death of Otim Leon Joshua, a 16-year-old student and resident of Customs Corner Cell, Bardeg Layibi Division, following misinformation circulating on social media.
According to preliminary findings, Otim left home on 06 December 2025 at around 5:00pm, informing his mother that he was heading to town. When he failed to return, the family waited through the night.
At approximately 5:00am, two boda boda riders brought him home in critical condition after he had allegedly been badly beaten and left unconscious at Lailong.
The riders also revealed to the mother the identities of the individuals suspected of assaulting her son.
Police investigations indicate that Otim was accused of stealing a mobile phone at around 4:00am, leading to the mob attack.
The mother rushed him to St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, where he was admitted, but despite medical intervention, Otim succumbed to his injuries on 09 December 2025 at around midday.
A police team subsequently visited the hospital, documented the scene, and recorded statements from key witnesses, including the mother and the boda boda riders.
Further inquiries revealed that the deceased was a student at Exel High School in Mukono, who had returned home for holidays.
Investigations have since established that Otim was assaulted by four individuals who are currently on the run. Security agencies have launched a manhunt to bring the suspects to book.
Police also dismissed circulating claims linking Otim’s death to a confrontation involving security personnel and Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, describing these allegations as false, misleading, and irresponsible.
“The truth is that Otim Leon Joshua died as a result of injuries sustained from an assault by individuals who suspected him of theft,” the statement reads.
The Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and pledged to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and justice is served.
