Otuke, Apac, and Lira city– April 8, 2025: A series of brutal killings, including two mob lynchings and a tragic domestic murder, have shaken the communities of Otuke, Apac, and Lira city in northern Uganda. The horrific events have sparked public outcry and calls for urgent action to curb rising vigilante justice and domestic violence.
In Otuke District, a 28-year-old man, Tom Ongom, was brutally lynched by a mob on April 7, 2025, after being accused of stealing a bull from Apili Josephine, a resident of Pama Village,Amintenyo parish ,Alanho sub county
The attack started in Anara Village, Alebtong District, where locals apprehended Ongom, severely beating him before dragging him to Pama Village. The mob grew as more villagers joined in the violent assault.
Despite the intervention of police officers, they arrived too late to save Ongom, who succumbed to his injuries.
North Kyoga Police spokesperson, SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, confirmed that authorities are working with Alebtong police to track down all the perpetrators involved in the brutal act.
The violence continued later the same day in Apac District when another mob attacked and killed Okello Patrick in Awilabongo Village ,Amun Parish on allegations of cow theft. Police swiftly arrested three suspects—Akaki Denis (17), Okello Walter (36), and Opeto Ambrose (26)—and condemned the mob justice, emphasizing that such acts are illegal under Uganda’s Constitution (Article 22).
“The law is clear—mob justice is illegal, and those who take the law into their own hands will be held accountable,” Okema stated. “We urge the public to stop resorting to violence and instead report suspected criminals to the police.”
In a heartbreaking twist, the region also witnessed a domestic tragedy in Lira City West Division. A long-standing marriage ended in violence when Otiri George allegedly killed his wife, Ajok Santa, after a violent dispute. The couple, married for 31 years, had a fierce argument that escalated when Otiri slapped Ajok, causing her to collapse. She later died in the hospital from her injuries.
The police are investigating the case, with Otiri in custody while authorities gather evidence. SP Okema warned that domestic violence, like mob justice, will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will face the full force of the law.
“This is a dangerous trend we are witnessing—mob justice, domestic violence, and impulsive brutality. These actions are criminal and will be met with appropriate legal consequences. We urge families to resolve conflicts peacefully and to report any violent acts to the authorities,” Okema stressed.
As the Lango region grapples with these shocking events, the public’s demand for justice and an end to such violence grows stronger. Police and community leaders are calling for greater awareness and preventive measures to address the root causes of mob violence and domestic abuse in the area.
