According to preliminary reports, the constable had gone to the trading centre with his wife at around 9:00 p.m. for leisure. The couple later approached a group of youths who were playing cards, and it remains unclear what triggered the disagreement.
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Mike Longole, the Mt Moroto Police Spokesperson
Police in Napak District are holding seven suspects in connection with the murder of Police Constable Luke Otto Owiny, who was attached to the Kodike ASTU (Anti-Stock Theft Unit) detachment. Owiny was killed on Monday evening following an altercation with civilians at Kodike Trading Centre.
According to preliminary reports, the constable had gone to the trading centre with his wife at around 9:00 p.m. for leisure. The couple later approached a group of youths who were playing cards, and it remains unclear what triggered the disagreement.
The situation reportedly escalated when the officer got into a quarrel with the group, which eventually turned violent. The civilians allegedly ganged up and beat him into a coma. His wife managed to flee the scene and ran back to the detachment to call for help.
Mike Longole, the Mt. Moroto Regional Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident, saying the officer was pronounced dead en route to the health facility. “As Uganda Police Force, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of PC Owiny during this difficult time,” Longole said.
“We assure the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident. Seven suspects have been arrested and are currently assisting with the investigation,” he added.
Longole emphasized that the police take the matter seriously and are committed to ensuring justice is served. He said the force is working closely with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the altercation and to identify all those responsible. He appealed to the public to cooperate with ongoing investigations and pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available.
