Panic as Unknown Arsonists Torch Seven Huts in Apaa Township

There is fear among residents of Apaa Township in Adjumani district after unknown arsonists set  seven huts ablaze and destroyed several household properties.

The huts belonging to Vincent Okiya and Patrick Kibwola, all residents of Oyanga Sub Village, were set on fire on Tuesday night when its occupants were out in Apaa Trading Centre. 

 

Residents in the area say that the people behind the act and their motives still remain unclear since the area had been at peace for quite some time much as they had been conflicting with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) over ownership of the land on claims that it is a wildlife protected area. 

Vincent Okiya, who lost three huts to the suspected arsonists, told URN on Friday evening that he is living in fear for the lives of his family due to the attack.   

He disclosed that he lost several household items and food stocks including sorghum, millet and maize as well as beddings and clothing and is currently stranded.

  

Patrick Kibwola, who lost four huts said that it is unfortunate that the area is again witnessing attacks from unknown persons which has now prompted fear among the people. 

  

Kibwola says he is considering seeking refuge together with his four family members to Apaa Trading Centre because he believes that the attackers may come again to his homestead. 

  

Abraham Opiru, a local leader in the area told URN that it is still unclear who could be behind the attack basing on the fact that there has been tension between the residents and UWA as well as tribal conflict between the Acholi of Amuru and Madi of Amuru and Adjumani districts respectively.  

Early this month a reconciliatory meeting on the contested Apaa Township bordering Adjumani and Amuru districts was called off indefinitely due to the coronavirus disease pandemic. 

  

The meeting was scheduled for Monday at Lulai village by local leaders and residents in the area to mediate the recurring violent conflicts between the two ethnic groups that have left at least fifteen people dead since 2017.  

  

Religious, cultural and political leaders from Adjumani and Amuru districts were expected to attend the meeting in a bid to restore constant peace among the two sects.