The Resident City Commissioner of Soroti City, Peter Pex Paak, has confirmed the arrest of another school owner in Soroti in connection with the murder of a P.1 pupil from Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
The victim, Joan Faith Apio, was tragically killed on February 5, 2025, just two days after reporting to school.
Paak made the announcement during a requiem mass in honor of Apio at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish in Soroti on Sunday Evening.
In his address to mourners, Paak condemned the barbaric act, which occurred around midday on Wednesday February 05, 2025.
He described the events as unfolding like a movie, with each person involved playing a role in the tragedy.
The crime took place in the staff toilet at Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
Without disclosing the suspect’s name, Paak explained that the individual arrested also owns a prominent school in Soroti City.
This person had reportedly convinced parents to enroll their children at Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
Although the parents initially agreed to enroll their twins at the school, Apio was tragically sacrificed just two days later.
“We have arrested that person as well, and we are now searching for the individual who received the blood in a black Cavera,” Paak said.
He further stated that all the individuals involved in the crime have been arrested, including the person who lured the girl, the one who waited, and the one who carried out the act.
Among those currently in police custody are the School Director, Mr. Joseph Okedi; his wife, Vivian Okedi; the School Matron, Osula Adongo; the School Head Teacher, David Kadimba; and several other unnamed individuals, as the matter is still under investigation.
Paak urged parents and school administrators to prioritize the safety of children, advising school heads to install security cameras for better surveillance.
“We will do everything in our power to ensure justice for Apio. Apio was sacrificed, and the police are looking for the person who received the blood in the black Cavera,” he said.
Paak also confirmed that Jozan Nursery and Primary School will remain closed indefinitely.
Stephen Otukei, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for Apio’s burial, clarified that the family has not received any funds from the perpetrators of the crime.
“The family has decided to let the law take its course,” Otukei said.
Catholic Church Speaks Out
Rev. Fr. Michael Omaria, the Assistant Parish Priest of Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish Soroti, urged the Christian community to place their trust in God and His son, Jesus Christ.
He emphasized that faith in God is essential for growth and survival, citing the metaphor of a tree planted by the riverbanks that flourishes.
He warned against placing trust in human strength and worldly resources, stating that relying on human abilities leads to sorrow in times of trouble.
“Our success and survival depend on God, not on money or guns. Those who turn to witch doctors for answers will never find the truth,” he said.
He encouraged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith, work hard even during crises, and turn to God for guidance.
Fr. Omaria added that the killing of Apio highlighted the distinction between Christians and pagans, urging everyone to help others strengthen their faith by drawing closer to Christ.
“Choose God’s path, not the evil one, and be determined to do good at all times. Whatever you do, if it’s weak, it will perish,” he said.
“Do not think that your actions will end here, before God, all shall be revealed. Live beyond this world, and trust that God will be with us on our journey,” he continued.
He further encouraged those in attendance to have faith, stating, “Whatever you’re going through, as long as you have faith in God, it will not be in vain. Walk with love and with God, and you will be blessed.”
He concluded by reminding the faithful that any act against God’s will is never a blessing, urging everyone to trust in God, who is incorruptible.
Autopsy Report
According to the medical report, Apio died from excessive bleeding caused by a deep cut to her neck, though all her body parts were intact.
The burial of Apio Joan Faith will take place today in Ateuso village, Akoromint Sub-county, Kapelebyong District.
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So sorry
I beg you disclose that one also so that people get to know of such schools and avoid them