Woman, 90, stoned to death for allegedly ‘planting a charm’ at burial in Lira

Lira | Police at Lira City Central Police Station are investigating the suspected mob murder of Epila Mary, 90, on September 9, 2024.

Epila was murdered at 14:45 p.m. in Gwengabara cell, Boroboro West Ward, Lira City East Division.

It is claimed that on September 9, 2024, at around 2 p.m., the deceased went to attend the burial of Engom Stephen, who died in a motor accident in Luwero district.

However, at the burial site, the 90-year-old was seen throwing a white pill (cavera) with a pink piece of cloth. Some mourners suspected it was a charm.

“So, some people became concerned and the LCI of the area, one Okori Stephen, together with the officer in charge (OC) Angwetangwet Police Outpost were informed about it,” said North Kyoga Region Police PRO, SP Jimmy Patrick Okema.

But the people gathered could not believe it and mistook it for a charm, Okema explained. “Soon, they became rowdy and began assaulting the old woman.

“The OC attempted to rescue her on a motorbike but was outnumbered; instead, they stoned her to death on accusations of witchcraft.”

According to Okema, a General Enquiry File dated 23/2024 was opened to investigate the allegation. “A team of police officers led by DPC Lira City CPS, homicide desk, scene of crime officers, and uniformed personnel went to the scene of the crime, documented it, photographed it, and drew a plan.”

The deceased’s son, Ocero Tom, and chairman, LC1 Okori Stephen, were interviewed and their statements recorded.

SP Okema has identified several suspects, including Odong Patrick, Okello Vincent, Obonyo Daniel, Ongom Dicken, and Opio Epila.

“Efforts to apprehend them are ongoing.”

The police described the incident as “very unfortunate and barbaric,” in which the suspects beat and stoned the elderly woman to death on suspicion.

“As police, we strongly condemn such and will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served,” said SP Okema.