Amolatar District, Uganda – Police in Amolatar District are investigating a murder by assault after a woman died following a domestic dispute. The incident occurred in Ogenga Village, Abwong Parish, Arwotcek Sub-County.
According to police reports, on March 6, 2025, at approximately 9:30 PM, Owak Tom, the suspect, returned home from a local drinking establishment and allegedly assaulted his wife, Apili Sarah. The assault, reportedly carried out with a stick, was triggered by an argument over the children not having been bathed.
Apili Sarah sustained injuries and lost consciousness. A nurse from a nearby clinic provided initial first aid, and she was subsequently transported to Amai Community Hospital for further treatment. Tragically, she died at the hospital on the morning of March 8, 2025.
The incident was reported to the police by Awanyi Peter, a 70-year-old concerned citizen. Officers from Amolatar Central Police Station (CPS) responded to the scene, which was examined and documented by the Scenes of Crime Officer (SOCO). Witness statements were collected. No physical evidence was recovered at the scene. The deceased’s body was transported to Amolatar Health Centre IV for a post-mortem examination.
The prime suspect, Owak Tom, is currently at large. Police are actively pursuing his arrest.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the couple had a history of domestic disputes and physical altercations.
Police spokesperson PJ Okema of the North Kyoga region expressed concern over the recurring nature of such incidents. He urged local leaders and “Awitongs” (traditional leaders) to intervene in domestic disputes to prevent further violence.
“It’s not the first time we are registering such cases,” Okema stated. “Therefore, we encourage local leadership and Awitongs to always intervene when there are such disagreements between couples, otherwise, we are bound to register more.”
Police also appealed to the suspect, Owak Tom, to surrender to any police facility for investigation and to face the charges against him.
