The Soroti Grade One Magistrate’s Court has once again adjourned the mention of the case involving the brutal murder of five-year-old pupil, Joan Faith Apio.
For the second time, the suspects appeared before court via Zoom.
His Worship Kibirige Apollo Kasujja had initially remanded the accused to various prisons across the Teso region on March 6, 2025, and set today, March 20, 2025, for the case mention.
However, during today’s session, the State Attorney requested additional time to allow for ongoing investigations.
In response, Magistrate Kibirige adjourned the mention and set April 3, 2025, as the new date for the suspects to appear in court.
The case stems from a tragic incident 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 joined the school’s boarding section.
The shocking discovery was made after the school matron, Adong Osula, noticed the child’s absence and raised the alarm.
Investigations led to the arrest of several individuals including Suzan Vivian Ariokot Okedi (38), the school’s co-director and wife of Joseph Okedi (43); James Odoket (32), the head teacher; and John Bosco Obotol (24), a police officer and Joseph Okedi’s brother.
Also charged are the school cook, Valentine Opio (27); matron Adong Osula (34); and two juveniles whose identities are being withheld due to their age.
All suspects face murder charges under Sections 188 and 189 of the Penal Code Act. Their first court appearance was on February 19, 2025.
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