Chaos erupted in Soroti town after the Grade One Magistrate’s Court adjourned the mention of a case involving the brutal murder of a five-year-old pupil, Joan Faith Apio.
Hundreds of angry residents took to the streets, expressing their frustration over the court’s decision to have the suspects appear via Zoom instead of physically attending the session.
His Worship Kibirige Apollo Kasujja, the Soroti Grade One Magistrate, remanded the accused to various prisons within the Teso region and set the next court date for March 20, 2025.
This decision did not sit well with the public, who had gathered in large numbers expecting a physical hearing.
The tragic incident unfolded on February 5, 2025, when Apio’s lifeless body was discovered inside a staff latrine at Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
Her throat had been slit, just two days after she and her twin sister had been enrolled in the school’s boarding section.
The shocking discovery was made after the school matron, Adong Osula, noticed her absence and raised the alarm.
Investigations led to the arrest of Suzan Vivian Ariokot Okedi (38), the school’s co-director and wife to Joseph Okedi (43); James Odoket (32), the head teacher; and John Bosco Obotol (24), a police officer and Joseph Okedi’s brother.
Also charged were the school cook, Valentine Opio (27); the matron, Adong Osula (34); and two juveniles whose identities have been withheld.
They all face charges of murder under Sections 188 and 189 of the Penal Code Act. Their first court appearance was on February 19, 2025, before today’s adjournment.
As soon as the court announced the adjournment and the decision for the suspects to appear remotely, angry residents spilled onto the streets, demanding justice for Apio.
Many questioned why such a serious case was being handled via Zoom instead of a physical hearing.
“We want justice! Why are they hiding these people? Let them come to court physically and face the law!” shouted one of the protestors outside the court premises.
The demonstration soon escalated, with residents storming Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
Reports indicate that they vandalized parts of the school infrastructure, including breaking windows and destroying classroom furniture.
Police quickly deployed to disperse the protesters and prevent further damage.
However, by press time, a large group of residents remained camped at the school, demanding immediate action.
Though the Magistrate His Worship Kibirige explained that, virtual court appearances are becoming more common, especially in sensitive cases. However, Teddy Acham an NRM Mobilizer in Teso and Joan Alobo Acom the Soroti City Woman MP argue that in a case as serious as this, a physical court appearance would have reassured the grieving family and the public.
“This is a highly emotional case, and the way it is handled matters. The public needs to see justice being done,” said MP Alobo.
With the next hearing set for March 20, 2025, authorities are urging the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
Meanwhile, police have tightened security around the school and the court premises to prevent further unrest.
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