Lira, Uganda – Tragedy struck in Acut Kumu, Ayami Subcounty, Lira District, as two children died of suspected poisoning, triggering mob violence that left three others dead, including two alleged suspects and a police officer critically injured.
The deceased children, identified as Ocwa Abel, 11, and Ocuku Raymond, 16, were sons of Odongo Yeko and Docus Odongo, members of the Omola Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng clan.
Reports indicate the boys had purchased chips and maize mixed with beans from Acut Kumu Trading Centre on Wednesday evening.
They fell ill overnight, complaining of severe stomach pain and died this morning en route to Lira Regional Referral Hospital.
Following the deaths, a furious community convened a meeting and launched a manhunt for suspects.
Ojok Martin, 50, reportedly implicated Akullo Genty, 57, as the supplier of poison.
Enraged villagers beat Ojok severely, later turning their wrath on Akullo, who was lynched along with another suspect, Lingo Sam, 38, of Arak Ongoda clan.
Two additional suspects were named, including Okol Denish, 35, who is reportedly on the run.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Ojok Martin succumbed to injuries sustained during the mob violence.
Authorities rushed to the scene to restore order, including the District Police Commander, Officer In Charge of CID, District Internal Security Officer and Resident District Commissioner Lilian Eyal.
During the chaos, an unidentified female CID officer, who is pregnant, was attacked while attempting to calm the mob and is currently hospitalized.
Speaking about the incident, Thomas Obur, the LC III Chairman of Ayami Subcounty, condemned the violence and urged the community to allow the law to take its course.
“The deaths of these innocent children are heartbreaking, but mob justice is not the solution. We must let the police do their work to ensure justice is served,” Obur stated.
Obur further appealed for calm and called on residents to avoid any further acts of violence.
He emphasized the importance of addressing grievances through lawful means to prevent additional tragedies.
George Ojwang Opota, the clan head (Awitong) of Omola Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng, confirmed the deaths and called for calm.
He urged the bereaved family to cooperate with police to ensure justice through legal means.
SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, North Kyoga Police Spokesperson, acknowledged the incident, stating that investigations are underway and promising a detailed update.
