(Adjumani) – The police in Adjumani have detained Dr. Amuni Emmanuel, a medical doctor at Adjumani General Hospital, after he allegedly attempted to poison a cancer patient under his care using Chlorine Dioxide Solution. This unapproved chemical has known toxic effects if ingested and can cause severe health consequences, including death.
The incident reportedly took place on the evening of October 13, 2024, when Dr. Emmanuel allegedly provided Chlorine Dioxide Solution, a substance not approved for human use in Uganda, to a patient’s attendant. The patient, identified as Okuga Simeo, who was already in a fragile state due to his cancer condition, displayed unusual symptoms soon after ingestion. Alarmed, the attendants notified hospital authorities about the patient’s deteriorating condition, prompting immediate intervention.
Hospital Superintendent Dr. Ambaku Michael confirmed the hospital had launched an internal investigation and identified what he described as “professional ethical breaches.” He stated that the investigation report has been forwarded to the district for further action, while Dr. Emmanuel remains in police custody for questioning.
Efforts by the media to reach the patient’s relatives were unsuccessful as they were engaged in private meetings with hospital administrators. Witness accounts from the hospital, however, allege that Dr. Emmanuel may have threatened to discharge the patient at night if relatives continued raising concerns over his treatment methods.
Some hospital employees, speaking anonymously, disclosed that Dr. Emmanuel had previously exhibited similar behavior at Mungula Health Centre IV. They added that he had been transferred to Adjumani General Hospital earlier this year for monitoring due to concerns over his professional conduct.
According to Dr. Ambaku, hospital staff have worked diligently to stabilize the patient, who is reportedly now in a better state. He further emphasized that Chlorine Dioxide Solution has never been approved for medical treatment in Uganda. “The patient has been monitored and is somewhat stable,” Dr. Ambaku said, “but when attempting such treatments, proper ethical approvals are essential.”
Adjumani Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Taban Dada Peter, confirmed the police’s involvement in the matter, stating that investigations are underway. “The police are already handling the case, and statements have been taken. We ask the public to remain calm as investigations continue,” the RDC commented, cautioning against public alarm until all facts are confirmed.
Chlorine dioxide, known as a strong cleaning agent, is commonly classified as a bleach and carries serious risks if ingested. Medical professionals warn that exposure to such chemicals can result in severe adverse health effects, including damage to the gastrointestinal tract and other potentially life-threatening complications.
Legal Implications
| Penal Code Act Section | Description | Potential Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Section 204 | Unlawful attempt to cause death or endanger human life through omission or unauthorized action | Life imprisonment |
This section of Uganda’s Penal Code could lead to severe legal consequences for Dr. Emmanuel if found guilty of attempting to endanger the patient’s life through unauthorized treatment.
