By Eumu Emmanuel
The territorial police in Oyam District are investigating two murder incidents, one involving a shooting and another resulting from mob violence, which occurred on May 18, 2025, at 6:24 PM in Tecik Village, Ngai Sub-County.
According to reports, Police Constables Herick Ojok, Robert Aguta, and Naturinda John Bosco, all attached to Ngai Police Station, were officially booked out to arrest Ambrose Okwir, a suspect in the theft of motorcycle registration number UDY 645Q.
SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, the North Kyoga regional police spokesperson, stated that a theft case had been reported by Justine Ogwang, and two suspects, Joshua Ongiro and Jolly Obong, were earlier arrested. They identified Okwir as their ringleader and the person in possession of the motorcycle.
During the attempted arrest, Nelson Ojok Omoding and others attempted to disarm the officers. In the ensuing struggle, the magazine was removed from the rifle, unaware that it was already cocked, resulting in a discharged bullet that fatally injured Ojok Omoding. He died shortly after being taken to a nearby clinic.
In response, a mob turned violent and attacked the officers. Constable Naturinda sought refuge at the home of the LC1 Chairman, Nixon Ameny, but was handed over to the mob and killed on the spot.
The two remaining officers fled in different directions and were later rescued with injuries. They are currently receiving treatment at Anyeke Health Centre IV.
Okema added that the mob later proceeded to Ngai Police Station, vandalized property, including case files, communication equipment, and windows, and forcefully released detainees from the cells.
A police team led by SP Mutegeki Job, the DPC Oyam, along with the OC Station and OC Operations, RDC, and LCV, responded and addressed community members, urging them to cooperate with security agencies in fighting crime. RPC North Kyoga, SSP Doka Rashid, also led a regional team to provide guidance and support.
The bodies of the deceased officer and civilian were conveyed to Anyeke Health Centre IV for postmortem examinations. The officer’s firearm, Rifle No. UG POL 565835910-33087, was recovered, although the magazine with 29 rounds was missing.
A murder case has been registered, and investigations are underway. Intelligence teams are currently on the ground, and approximately 15 key suspects have been identified. Arrests are ongoing.
The police in the region condole with the bereaved families and urge community leaders to support efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent future incidents.