By Nathan Eyagu
SOROTI – Soroti City was engulfed in chaos today as police fired tear gas to disperse an agitated crowd that had gathered near Jozan Nursery and Primary School. The deployment was part of an intelligence-led operation aimed at collecting evidence related to the murder of five-year-old Apio Joan, a twin and Primary One pupil.
Apio's lifeless body was discovered on February 5, 2025, in a pit latrine within the school premises. The young girl had recently been admitted for her first term studies before her tragic death sent shockwaves through the community.
Police in Soroti have since expanded their investigation into the case. According to East Kyoga Regional Police Commander Damali Nachuha, vital items suspected to have been used in the murder were recovered from a school latrine, shedding new light on the ongoing inquiry.
As law enforcement officers carried out their investigation, the growing crowd became increasingly restless. Police instructed onlookers to maintain calm and keep a safe distance, but many failed to comply. Efforts to communicate with the gathering proved futile, with a section of the crowd reportedly charging at officers in defiance.
Tensions escalated when investigators retrieved a box containing items believed to be crucial evidence. The sight of the collection process further inflamed emotions, leading to an eruption of unrest that prompted police to deploy tear gas to restore order.
Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to bring justice for Apio and her family. Meanwhile, security forces remain on high alert as the situation in Soroti City continues to unfold.
