By Our Reporter

Amuria District – A cloud of fear and confusion hangs over Omoratok Village in Orungo Sub County, Amuria District after a 12-year-old boy, Gabriel Emesu, mysteriously disappeared on his way to school over three weeks ago.

Gabriel, a Primary Six pupil at Orungo Primary School, was last seen on the morning of Monday, March 17, 2025, when he left home for school. His father, Julius Ekongu, recalls that the night before, he had expressed concern over Gabriel’s missing books and school performance, considering he is a semi-candidate preparing for final exams.

“I only spoke to him about his schoolwork, and the next morning, he left like usual. But he never reached school—and since then, we have not seen or heard from him,” Ekongu explained.

The disappearance has triggered a desperate search by family members and the local community. Ekongu says he has combed through police stations, churches, different schools, and even the streets of Soroti City in search of his son. Announcements have also been made across several radio stations and shared on social media platforms, all to no avail.

Gabriel is described as small-bodied, tall, with shy eyes and a slightly light complexion. His family insists he has no mental health issues and communicates normally. They are pleading with the public to assist in locating him or reporting to the nearest police or radio station if found.

The situation has caused growing tension within the family. Local council leader Edison Enyangu of Akism Cell in Orungo Town Council confirmed the incident, noting that the boy’s disappearance has sparked misunderstandings among family members.

“This case has deeply shaken the community. We’ve searched everywhere but failed. The family is now divided, and the situation is heartbreaking,” Enyangu said. He urged the public to assist in the search or report any suspicious information.

Gabriel’s elder brother, Emmanuel Edigu, also made an emotional plea for his brother’s return, saying his absence has left their parents in emotional turmoil. “Please, Gabriel, come back home. We love you and miss you.”

Ali Okello, the boy’s grandfather, shared that the family has traversed several districts in a frantic search, fearing the worst due to recent reports of rising violence against teenagers in the region.

“We are scared. The killings of young people lately have made us fear for the worst,” he said.

Anyone with useful information is urged to contact the family directly through the father’s number: 0779291009.