By Soroti Police have arrested Ms. Suzan Vivian Okedi, the wife of the director of Jozan Nursery and Primary School, as investigations intensify into the suspected ritual killing of 5-year-old Joan Faith Apio.
East Kyoga Regional Police Commander (RPC) Damalie Nachuha confirmed the arrest on Monday, February 10, stating that Ms. Okedi was taken into custody alongside her brother, who was apprehended at the school premises. Their arrest brings the total number of suspects in police custody to five.
Jozan Nursery and Primary School, which has since been closed and cordoned off by police, became the focal point of investigations following Apio’s gruesome murder last week. Authorities suspect that key evidence related to the crime may be found within the school.
RPC Nachuha assured the public that law enforcement is working meticulously to gather crucial evidence and ensure that justice is served. She called for patience as the investigation continues.
“This is a highly sensitive case, and we are working closely with forensic experts to establish the truth. We urge the public to remain calm as we handle this matter with the seriousness it deserves,” she stated.
Apio, a twin, had only spent three days in the school’s boarding section before she was found dead under horrifying circumstances. Her throat had been removed, and her body was discovered locked inside the staff pit latrine. The shocking discovery was made by the school matron, Ms. Osula Adong, who described the scene with deep distress.
The incident has sparked outrage across Soroti and beyond, with parents and community members demanding swift justice for the young girl. Many have expressed growing concerns about the safety of children in boarding schools, calling for stricter regulations and increased security measures.
As police continue their investigations, they have vowed to leave no stone unturned in identifying all those responsible and establishing the motive behind the killing. Meanwhile, distressed parents whose children were enrolled at Jozan Nursery and Primary School are calling for its permanent closure, fearing for the safety of their children.
This tragic event has reignited national debate on the alarming rise of suspected ritual sacrifices in Uganda, with human rights activists and child protection advocates calling for harsher penalties against individuals involved in such heinous crimes.
Authorities have reassured the public that justice will be served and have urged anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
