The Territorial Police in in Mityana District have recovered a newborn baby boy, estimated to be around three days old. The infant was discovered abandoned in a tree nursery bed in Kiwawu. The baby was reportedly left by his biological mother.
Police spokesperson for Wamala Region, Kawala Racheal, confirmed the incident. The baby was found by local residents who alerted the authorities. The police responded promptly and took the infant into their care.
The case is under investigation to locate the child’s mother and determine the circumstances leading to the abandonment. The baby has been taken to a local facility for medical evaluation and care.
Attack on Pastoralists in Hoima Leaves Five Injured and Houses Burned
In other local news, an attack on pastoralists in Rujumba village in Hoima district has resulted in the burning of over 10 houses and injuries to five individuals. The incident, which occurred on the afternoon of August 3, 2024, was reportedly fueled by a land-related dispute.
According to police spokesperson Julius Hakiiza, a group armed with machetes and bows and arrows launched the attack on Rujumba village around 4:00 p.m. The attackers set fire to more than 10 grass-thatched houses and two permanent structures. They also assaulted several residents, leaving five individuals with serious injuries.
The injured have been identified as Florah Kyabomwana, 65, Stephen Kanzira, 58, Sam Kyalisiima, 50, Ali Sengoba, 28, and Jackson Mugisa, 22. They are currently receiving medical treatment at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital.
In addition to the destruction of property and injuries, the attackers stole an unspecified number of livestock, including goats and pigs. Following the attack, police arrested two suspects, Lenju village chairperson Sozil Okumu and resident Pius from Rujumba. They are suspected of leading the attack, while other perpetrators are still being pursued by the authorities.
The attack is believed to stem from ongoing land disputes, with the attackers accusing the pastoralists of encroaching on their land. Albertine Police Region has indicated that the suspects will face charges of aggravated robbery, arson, and assault once the investigation is complete.
Member of Parliament David Karubanga has condemned the violence and highlighted the broader issue of unresolved land conflicts in the region. He cited ongoing disputes in areas such as Kapapi, Pere in Kyabisagazi sub-county, Runga, and Rejju, and called for concerted efforts to resolve these conflicts to prevent further violence and loss of life.
Karubanga urged collaboration with the district security committee to address land disputes and prevent future incidents of eviction and violence.
Teacher and Wife Killed in Motorcycle Crash on Nebbi-Pakwach Highway
Meanwhile, a tragic road accident on the Nebbi-Pakwach highway resulted in the deaths of a school teacher and his wife. The crash occurred on Sunday, August 4, 2024, involving a double-cabin pickup truck and a Bajaj motorcycle.
According to police in Pakwach, the accident took place at Ondir in Pakwach Sub County. The pickup, with registration number UAT 759D, was traveling from Nebbi to Kampala when it collided with the motorcycle, registration number UGA 864K. The impact caused the vehicle to overturn, resulting in significant injuries to those on board.
The deceased have been identified as Brian Ocircan, a teacher at Alwi Seed Secondary School, and his wife, Annet Ocircan. They were returning from a burial in Pacego, Panyango Sub County when the pickup, traveling at high speed, struck them from behind.
Norbert Ocircan, the head teacher of Alwi Seed Secondary School, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. He described Brian Ocircan as a dedicated and hardworking teacher who significantly contributed to the school’s community. Ocircan was known for his roles in teaching Mathematics and Physical Education.
Robert Omito Steen, the LC5 chairperson of Pakwach District, urged road users to adhere to road safety regulations and avoid speeding. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement of speed limits to prevent such fatal accidents.
The driver responsible for the crash reported the incident to Pakwach police station before fleeing the scene and abandoning the vehicle. This incident marks the second fatal accident in August, contributing to a total of three deaths recorded in Pakwach district this month.
