OYAM DISTRICT – February 4, 2026 – Police in Oyam District are investigating a harrowing case of murder after a 12-year-old pupil, Olwa Brian, was allegedly beaten to death by his own father and relatives in a four-hour assault under the guise of discipline. The incident, which occurred in Opuk Village, Minakulu Sub-county, has sparked outrage and a police appeal against violent child punishment.
According to a statement from the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the tragedy began at around 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The deceased’s father, Omara Denis, 40, reportedly gathered his children, including Olwa Brian, at their grandmother’s home to discipline them.
“During the process, he questioned the deceased about his behavior of not staying at home. The response allegedly angered Omara Denis, who then started assaulting the child by boxing, kicking, and beating him with sticks,” the police statement detailed.
The situation escalated horrifically when the child’s mother, Awino Janet, and another relative identified as Komakech Odyek, allegedly joined the father in beating the boy with sticks. The sustained assault continued for approximately four hours until around 11:00 a.m., when the child was pronounced dead.
The brutal nature of the incident only came to light when a brother of the deceased, Oyugu Ivan, alerted local leaders after witnessing the severe assault. Community members, including the LC3 Chairman of Minakulu Sub-county, Owani Peter, rushed to the scene. Chairman Owani Peter reported the matter to the police at 12:49 p.m. after witnessing the aftermath.
In a dramatic turn of events, the father, Omara Denis, allegedly attempted to hang himself with a rope upon realizing the child had died but was rescued. Awino Janet and Komakech Odyek reportedly fled the scene.
Police have registered a case of murder. The homicide team documented the scene and recorded witness statements. The body of the deceased was conveyed to Anyeke Health Centre IV mortuary for a postmortem examination.
SP Okema confirmed that one suspect has been arrested, while efforts to trace and apprehend the other two suspects are ongoing. He termed the incident “yet another unfortunate” event and issued a stern appeal to the community.
“Our appeal goes to the family heads and clan leaders to always find the best approach to handling children in conflict with the law,” Okema stated, implicitly condemning the violent disciplinary methods that led to the child’s death.
The case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the deadly consequences of extreme physical punishment and vigilantism within families.
