Amolatar | Police in Amolatar district are looking for Owak Tom, a resident of Ogenga village, Abwong parish, Arwotcek sub-county, after allegations that he murdered his wife, Sarah Apili, during a domestic dispute.
The incident, which has sent shockwaves throughout the community, occurred on March 6, 2025, and has once again highlighted the harsh reality of domestic violence.
According to SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, the Regional Police PRO for North Kyoga, the suspect returned home from a drinking establishment on the evening of March 6, 2025, around 9:30 p.m.
Thereafter, he began assaulting his wife with a stick. The attack was reportedly triggered by his anger over her failure to bathe their children. The assault left Sarah Apili with severe injuries, rendering her unconscious.
A nurse from a local clinic was called to administer first aid, and Sarah was later rushed to Amai Community Hospital, where she was admitted.
Unfortunately she succumbed to her injuries on the morning of March 8, 2025.
The matter was reported to the police by Awanyi Peter, 70, concerned citizen. Officers from Amolatar Central Police Station (CPS) promptly visited the scene, where they documented the incident and recorded statements from relevant witnesses.
The body of the deceased was conveyed to Amolatar Health Centre IV for a postmortem examination, while the prime suspect, Owak Tom, remains at large, according to SP Okema.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the couple had a history of frequent domestic misunderstandings, often escalating into physical altercations.
SP Okema emphasized the need for community leaders and neighbors to intervene early in such situations to prevent tragic outcomes.
“We are calling upon local leaders to step in when they notice domestic disagreements. This is not the first time we are registering such a case, and timely intervention could save lives,” SP Okema stated.
He also urged the suspect to surrender himself to the nearest police facility to face charges.
The police have registered a case of murder by assault and are intensifying efforts to apprehend Owak. No exhibits were recovered from the scene, but the investigation is ongoing.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and action against domestic violence in Uganda.
Community leaders, law enforcement, and civil society must work together to address the root causes of such violence and provide support to vulnerable individuals.
Reporting by Arao Denis & Ejang Sarah.
Discover more from tndNews, Uganda
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.