By Alfred Opio
Police in Soroti City have launched a manhunt for a suspect in connection with the alleged murder of a 14-year-old Primary Seven pupil of Father Hilder’s Primary School.
According to the Uganda Police Force, the tragic incident occurred on the night of February 10, 2026, at about 9:00 p.m. in Oderai Cell, Majengo Ward, West Division, Soroti City.
In a statement released by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Saji Ibrahim Saiga, the Regional Police Commander for East Kyoga, the deceased was identified as Akote Clare, a Primary Seven candidate and resident of Oderai Cell.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the pupil was allegedly assaulted by her father, identified as Okwi Simon, inside their rented residence.
Police report that the suspect allegedly used a cable wire during the assault. Clare is said to have been attacked alongside her brother during the incident.
Both children reportedly lost consciousness following the assault. Clare was rushed to a nearby health facility, where she was pronounced dead on arrival, while her brother survived and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Authorities further revealed that after the incident, the suspect allegedly attempted to mislead relatives about the cause of the child’s death and initially failed to report the matter to police.
He later made a report the following day, February 11, but subsequently disappeared.
The East Kyoga Regional Police Command has since intensified efforts to trace and apprehend the suspect, who remains at large.
Detectives have opened a murder case and are recording statements from family members, neighbours, and other potential witnesses to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
ACP Saiga strongly condemned the alleged act, describing it as a grave case of domestic violence and child abuse.
“The Uganda Police Force strongly condemns all forms of domestic violence and child abuse. We appeal to members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with police by providing any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect. Such information will be treated with strict confidentiality,” Saiga stated.
Police have cautioned the public against taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing that justice will be pursued through lawful procedures.
Residents of Soroti City and surrounding areas have been urged to report any information about the suspect’s whereabouts to the nearest police station.
Local leaders in Majengo Ward have called for increased community sensitization on parenting, conflict resolution, and child protection to prevent similar tragedies.
As investigations continue, police say further updates will be communicated to the public.
The tragic loss of the young pupil has renewed calls for collective action against domestic violence and greater protection of children within homes and communities.
