By Admin
The tragic death of six-year-old Apio Joan Faith, a twin who was found dead in the latrine of Jozan Nursery and Primary School in Soroti City East Division sparked widespread concern and outrage in the local community.
The circumstances surrounding her death, reportedly the result of a violent act, have led to deep grief among parents and calls for accountability.
Only three days after starting at the boarding school, Apio was discovered by the matron, Ms. Osula Adong, who described the horrifying scene.
“We found Apio dead in the staff pit latrine; her neck was deeply cut with a sharp object. I raised a concern after noticing her absence, and we searched the entire school before finding her helpless body lying in the pit latrine,” she recounted, clearly shaken by the tragic event.
The bereaved mother, Ms. Eveline Akol, a midwife at Magoro Health Center III in Katakwi district, voiced her deep regret about sending her daughter to boarding school and expressed her distress over the school’s failure to communicate promptly about the incident.
“My daughter Apio is a twin, and I had delivered her and her sister Acen just two days before this tragedy,” she said. Overcome with grief, she struggled to comprehend her loss, collapsing shortly after sharing her heartbreak.
In the wake of Apio’s murder, more than 500 parents converged at the school, demanding the immediate release of their children out of fear for their safety.
Many parents expressed growing frustrations concerning the school’s safety record, referencing past incidents that had already raised alarms.
As part of the investigation into Apio’s death, law enforcement officials have detained several school personnel, including school Proprietor Mr. Joseph Okedi, the head teacher, and the matron.
Local government representatives, including Deputy Resident City Commissioner Miss Ayipo Claire, announced the temporary closure of the school until the following Wednesday and called on the community to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
“We have confirmed the death of the little girl, and we are actively investigating the incident. We have increased security measures to prevent violence and further unrest following the community’s anger,” Ayipo stated.
She emphasized the importance of community cooperation in guiding the investigation.
As authorities continue their inquiries into this deeply disturbing case, there is a collective hope for justice for young Apio and a renewed focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of all students in the community.
