By Nathan Eyagu 

Ngora District – A tragic shooting at Teso Progressive Academy (TEPA) has resulted in the death of a 20-year-old student, Okiror Gabriel, and left a geography teacher, Majja Bernard, critically injured. The shocking incident unfolded around 10:37 AM in Osigiria cell, Ngora town, sparking urgent discussions about safety in schools.

According to the report by Ngora police in the south kyoga region released today, the incident began when Police Constable Ijobu Sylvia and UPDF soldier Private Atim Agnes were dispatched to the school after receiving a call from Omugur John, the academy's director. The call pertained to Gabriel’s troubling behavior, which included allegations of theft from fellow students.

Upon arrival at the school at approximately 10:09 AM, Gabriel reportedly resisted arrest, leading to a chaotic confrontation. In the midst of this altercation, Private Atim Agnes is said to have forcibly taken the AK-47 rifle from Constable Ijobu.

During this incident, Agnes discharged the weapon, fatally striking Gabriel in the chest. The bullet also hit Majja Bernard, who was seated nearby, resulting in his immediate transport to a hospital in Mbale for urgent medical treatment.

The serial number of the used AK-47 firearm is identified as UG POL 56-5811520.35798, and officials recovered 29 rounds of ammunition from the magazine at the scene. Shocking details have emerged about the circumstances leading to the confrontation, revealing that Gabriel had a history of misconduct and had only recently returned to school after being suspended for stealing. Eyewitnesses reported that he exhibited violent behavior during the attempted arrest.

The scene was described as chaotic, with Gabriel found partially dressed in the school compound, raising further concerns about the events leading up to the shooting.

The police have launched a manhunt for the two suspects, Constable Ijobu Sylvia and Private Atim Agnes, who are currently unaccounted for.

"Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to gather more information and provide clarity on this distressing situation", the statement read.