By Our Reporter 

Soroti City - Police in Soroti City West Division have arrested five individuals in connection with the theft of 15 decker beds from Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Secondary School. The suspects, all male, were apprehended in Opiyai A Cell, Opiyai Ward, and are currently in custody at East Kyoga Police Station.

Among those arrested is Gilbert Ebusu, the school’s night watchman, whose son, Emmanuel Eyou, is accused of masterminding the theft. Others in custody include Joshua Etenu, Paul Okiring—a boda boda rider who reportedly helped transport the stolen beds—and two additional unnamed suspects.

The incident came to light when Eyou was reportedly caught attempting to steal mobile phones in the neighboring Opiyai B Cell. According to Teddy Anayo, the LC1 Chairperson of Opiyai A, the attempted phone theft led to his identification and eventual arrest. During interrogation, Eyou confessed and named his accomplices, which led to the recovery of the stolen beds.

"Unfortunately, one of the suspects, the school’s watchman Mr. Ebusu, is also the father of Emmanuel Eyou, raising questions about possible insider involvement," Anayo told reporters.

Ebusu, however, has denied any complicity in the theft. He admitted to receiving complaints about his son's activities and claimed he had been trying to discipline him. “I have scolded Emmanuel multiple times for stealing money and beds, but I failed to change him,” Ebusu said.

Other suspects have reportedly admitted to their roles in the theft. Okiring confessed to transporting the stolen items, while Etenu expressed remorse and pledged to change his behavior.

Rev. Patrick Ekau, the Resident Director of PAG Secondary School, confirmed that the school is working closely with police to resolve the matter. “We are asking those found in possession of the stolen beds to return them and pay a fine of 150,000 shillings each. Failure to comply will lead to arrest,” he said.

The case has shocked the local community, especially given the involvement of a school staff member and his son. Investigations are ongoing as police prepare to press charges.