POLICE PROBE CHILD TORTURE, ATTEMPTED MURDER, AND ABDUCTION CASES IN LANGO SUB-REGION
Police in Uganda's Lango sub-region are investigating three separate serious criminal incidents reported this week, including the alleged torture of a seven-year-old boy by his father in Alebtong District, the arrest of a suspect over attempted murder linked to suspected witchcraft, and the alleged abduction and rape of a young girl in Lira City. North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson SP Jimmy Patrick Okema confirmed that all cases are under active investigation as security agencies intensify efforts to combat violent crime and offenses against children across the region. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the child's father and are appealing to the public for information.
LIRA CITY – Police in the Lango sub-region are investigating three separate serious criminal cases reported this week, including the alleged torture of a seven-year-old boy in Alebtong District, an attempted murder, and the alleged theft, abduction, and rape of two young girls in Lira City.
The North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson, SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, confirmed that the incidents are under active investigation as security agencies intensify efforts to combat violent crime and offenses against children across the region .
Police Hunt Father Over Alleged Torture of Seven-Year-Old Son
Police in Alebtong District have launched a manhunt for Morris Otim, who is wanted in connection with the alleged torture of his seven-year-old biological son.
According to SP Okema, the child, identified as Oguta Ronald, sustained severe injuries after he was allegedly assaulted by his father and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The case was reported to Apala Town Council Police Station on July 26, 2026, by the child's uncle, Daniel Aliro, who sought police intervention after learning of the alleged abuse. Police immediately opened an inquiry and began searching for the suspect.
"We are actively pursuing the suspect and urge him to report to the nearest police station to facilitate investigations," SP Okema said.
He also appealed to members of the public with information about Otim's whereabouts to cooperate with investigators, warning that anyone found harbouring or assisting a suspect wanted in connection with a serious offence risks prosecution under Ugandan law.
Police said the child is receiving the necessary medical care while investigations continue.
Suspect Arrested Over Attempted Murder
In a separate incident, police attached to Awei Police Station arrested Vincent Adeki in connection with the attempted murder of Susan Alum, 33, a resident of Acede Atidi Village in Acede Parish, Alebtong District over suspected witchcraft.
According to police, Adeki and others who are still at large allegedly took mob action on Alum, leaving her with serious injuries before police intervened. The victim was rushed to Alebtong Health Centre, where she is undergoing treatment.
SP Okema said detectives visited and documented the crime scene, recorded witness statements, and recovered exhibits expected to assist with the investigation. He added that police are pursuing other individuals believed to have participated in the attack.
"We are determined to ensure that everyone connected to this incident is identified, arrested, and prosecuted," he said.
Police Investigate Alleged Theft, Abduction, and Rape of Two Girls
Meanwhile, police in Lira City West Division have opened investigations into the alleged theft, abduction, and rape of two young girls in Kakoge C Cell, Ojwina Division.
According to SP Okema, the incident occurred at around 9:00 a.m. on July 26, 2026, when suspects identified as Ayuru Sarah and Arac Holiver allegedly broke into a home and stole several household items, including clothes, money, and school bags.
Police allege that the suspects later abducted one of the girls and raped her before fleeing. Officers responded after receiving the report, rescued the children, and took them for medical examination and appropriate care.
Investigators are now working to trace and arrest the suspects while detectives continue collecting evidence and recording witness statements. Police have appealed to anyone with information that could lead to the suspects' arrest to report to the nearest police station or use available police communication channels.
Police Urge Public Cooperation
SP Okema said the three incidents highlight the importance of public vigilance and timely reporting of crime. He urged communities to work closely with law enforcement by promptly reporting suspected criminal activity, preserving crime scenes where possible, and providing credible information to aid investigations.
He reaffirmed the Uganda Police Force's commitment to protecting children and vulnerable members of society. Regional police statistics have previously shown that child-related offenses, including defilement, abuse, and neglect, remain significant challenges across the Lango sub-region .
Police have called on parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children's welfare and to report any suspected abuse or exploitation without delay.
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