Patrick Okidi, Otuke District – The Otuke District Police are holding two suspects at Otuke Central Police Station (CPS) on suspicion of murder by poisoning. The incident occurred in Awee village, Agweng Parish, Alango Sub-County, Otuke District.
According to North Kyoga Region Police Public Relations Officer (PRO) Superintendent of Police (SP) Jimmy Patrick Okema, the report was filed by Onyanga Richard, a 54-year-old local council one (LC1) chairperson of the village.
It is alleged that on April 28, 2024, Otiti Aldo, the father of the deceased, Ojede Emmanuel, purchased 9,000 shillings worth of waragi (local distilled gin). He then returned home and drank it with his two children.
After consuming the waragi, both children became violently ill. Sadly, Ojede Emmanuel died. The surviving child was rushed to Aliwang Mission Hospital for medical attention.
Police officers visited the crime scene and recorded statements from witnesses. The remaining waragi was recovered as evidence and will be sent to the government laboratory in Wandegeya, Kampala, for analysis.
The deceased’s body was transported to Orum Health Center IV for a postmortem examination.
Two suspects have been arrested to assist with the investigation.
SP Jimmy Patrick Okema expressed shock at the incident, particularly that a father would share waragi with his children. The motive for the father’s actions is unknown as he is currently detained while the investigation continues.
The police have appealed to the community, especially the relatives of the deceased, to remain calm as the matter is under investigation. The North Kyoga Police have pledged that the law will take its course against the suspects and anyone else linked to the incident.
