By Our Reporter

SOROTI - Police in Soroti City have arrested Suzan Vivian Kedi, the wife of the director of Jozan Nursery and Primary School, as part of an ongoing investigation into the suspected murder of a five-year-old pupil, Joan Faith Apio.  

The arrest, which took place on Monday, February 10, was confirmed by the East Kyoga Regional Police Commander, Damalie Nachuha. Speaking to the media, Nachuha stated that Kedi was taken into custody along with the director’s brother, who was apprehended at the school premises.  

Jozan Nursery and Primary School, which has now been sealed off by police, became the focus of investigations after Apio’s tragic death last week. The police believe that key evidence linked to the incident may be found within the school premises.  

"It’s true she [Kedi] is in our custody over the murder of the pupil in the school. We also arrested the brother of the director, whom we found at the scene of the crime," Nachuha told journalists on Monday evening.  

She further assured the public that the police were diligently gathering more evidence and urged patience while investigations continue.  

"We ask for trust from the public. We are handling this matter professionally and will ensure justice is served," she added.  

With Kedi’s arrest, the number of detained suspects in the case has risen to five.  

Other individuals already in custody include her husband, Joseph Kedi, who is the director of the school, headteacher David Kadimba, matron Osula Adongo, and an unnamed teacher.  

Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific roles the suspects are believed to have played in the case, but they remain under police detention as officers piece together the circumstances surrounding Apio’s death.  

In a significant development, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding has called for the indefinite closure of Jozan Nursery and Primary School.  

As investigations progress, community members remain on edge, eager for answers regarding how a young child lost her life within school premises. Many parents have voiced concerns over the safety of their children in local schools and are calling for stricter oversight of private institutions.  

Regional Commander Nachuha confirmed that once major investigations are complete, the suspects will be formally charged in court. However, no specific timeline has been provided.  

"We are working carefully to ensure we build a strong case. Once all necessary procedures are completed, the suspects will face the law," she assured.  

The tragic case has sparked public outrage and renewed debate on school safety in Uganda, with many demanding stronger regulations for privately owned learning institutions.  

As the police continue their investigations, the community awaits justice for Joan Faith Apio.  

Additional Reporting: New Vision