(Lira) – Lira city was gripped by shock on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, after the tragic death of Dickens Odongo, a respected local businessman, who was fatally shot outside a supermarket. The incident, which took place in the morning hours, involved 36 year old security guard Moses Opio, employed by Capital Guard and Patrol. Opio, who allegedly fired the shot, fled the scene before voluntarily surrendering at Lira City Central Police Station.
The shooting quickly caused public alarm as rumors began to circulate, suggesting the supermarket’s Asian owner may have ordered the shooting. This unverified claim led to heightened tension in the city, with some individuals targeting businesses owned by Asian nationals, causing crowds to gather in protest.
Odongo, aged 40 and a resident of Railway Quarter cell, was widely recognized in the community. He was frequently seen commuting by motorcycle and would often park outside the supermarket before traveling around town selling fashion apparel.
Juma Owera, the chairperson of the Lira City West Bodaboda Association, was reportedly present with Odongo during the incident. Owera explained that Odongo, sitting beside him, had been mediating a disagreement between bodaboda riders. Owera speculated that the shooting was unintentional, describing how the guard approached them, and the firearm allegedly discharged, striking Odongo in the shoulder and proving fatal.
As unconfirmed information spread through the community, public anger escalated, leading some individuals to throw stones at the supermarket and nearby businesses. Reports indicated that several youths from the Barogole area engaged in looting shops, adding to the disorder.
Police forces quickly intervened, using tear gas and live ammunition to disperse the growing crowd. Military forces were later deployed to secure the area and restore order.
Table: Details of the Incident
| Incident | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 29, 2024 |
| Location | Outside a supermarket in Lira |
| Victim | Dickens Odongo, local businessman |
| Suspect | Moses Opio, security guard |
| Security Company | Capital Guard and Patrol |
| Public Response | Protest, stoning, looting |
North Kyoga Police spokesperson, Patrick Jimmy Okema, confirmed the detention of the suspect, who resides in Barlwal cell, Adekokwok ward. Opio reportedly stated that the shooting was accidental. Police have since recovered the firearm, which will undergo examination by ballistic experts to determine if there was a mechanical failure.
Okema elaborated on the investigation, stating, “We intend to conduct a full medical examination of the suspect, document a formal statement, and forward the case to the Resident Chief State Attorney for further review.” Okema also urged the public to stay calm, emphasizing that the authorities are dedicated to ensuring a fair and thorough investigation.
Witnesses at the scene reported that Odongo had been seated peacefully outside the supermarket before the shot was fired. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Brian Ampaire, the Lira City Division Police Commander, assured residents that additional security measures were being implemented to address community concerns. “We are committed to public safety and will conduct an exhaustive investigation,” Ampaire stated, adding that while the incident’s motive remains uncertain, the suspect is in custody for further inquiry.
Capital Guard and Patrol, the security firm employing Opio, also issued a statement. Emmanuel Odyek, the company’s operations manager, expressed regret over the incident, describing Opio as an employee with no history of misconduct. “We are deeply saddened by this event, which may have resulted from an ammunition malfunction, though we await the official police findings,” Odyek said.
Several residents, including George Goldies Aporo, voiced suggestions for the local police to engage in dialogue with Asian business owners to foster improved relations with the broader community.
