By Stephen Ojacor
The Soroti grade one magistrate has remanded seven suspects in connection with the murder of five-year-old Joan Faith Apio aged 5, a P. 1 pupil who was brutally murdered at Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
The suspects include individuals tied to the Jozan Nursery and Primary School, such as the proprietors and the head teacher, along with a police officer and two juveniles.
They include Suzan Vivian Ariokot aged 38 a core school director, Joseph Okedi aged 43 the Proprietor, The head teacher Odoket James 32, Obotol John Bosco aged 24 a police officer and the cook Opio Valentine aged 27.
Two other Juveniles were sent to demand in connection to the case.
The murder, suspected to be ritualistic due to the brutal nature of the killing, has left the community in shock and mourning.
The suspects were presented before Grade One Magistrate Kibirige Apollo Kagwa in Soroti City, and the case has been adjourned to March 6, 2025, with the suspects being remanded in different prisons.
At Joan’s funeral service, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, the Deputy Commander Chief of Defense Forces, assured the family and mourners that justice would be served, offering some comfort to those affected by the tragedy.
The family and community now place their trust in the government, hoping for a fair and swift resolution to the case.
The murder has raised significant concerns, and the coming months will be critical as the legal process continues.