Stephen Ocan Apila, the Parabongo sub county chairperson stated that locals in the area are in fear following the tragic incident. He further stated that most gun cases are blamed on Karamojong Warriors yet some may be locals from within.
Over the weekend, businessman Denis Twesigye from Ntinda became a victim of this terrifying trend. After withdrawing cash from a bank in Ntinda, Twesigye was followed to his home by a group of armed thugs.
Latanya LC3 Chairperson Bob Okello Oywak confirmed the incident, saying, “These families have lost everything. They have no food, no shelter, and no school materials for their children. We appeal to well-wishers to support them in any way possible.”
Some boda boda riders have expressed strong concerns to Uganda Radio Network (URN) that the digital number plates have not effectively protected them from motorcycle thefts, claiming that thieves can easily disable the tracking device, rendering the system useless in tracing the stolen motorcycles.
Norbert Okii, the Pader District Probation Officer, stated that alcoholism and polygamy are primary causes of GBV in the area. He explained that many incidents occur especially during harvest seasons when disagreements rise between couples over who should own what after the harvest.
Kite Ojok, Lira-Kato Sub-County Chairperson, and also Chairperson for Agago LC IIIs expressed concern over the resurgence of attacks by Karamojong warriors. “The situation is worrying, and we urge the government to increase security deployment along the border lines to protect our people,” Ojok said.
Kilama, who is also the Democratic Party (DP) Chairperson for Pader District, was reportedly apprehended by armed operatives in civilian clothing at the court's entrance. Cliph Atare, DP spokesperson for Pader District, stated, “He was assaulted before Kilama was whisked away to an unknown destination.”
During the meeting, IGP Byakagaba emphasized the need for fairness and integrity in exercising authority, urging commanders to maintain strict command and control in their units.
Speaking to journalists at Naguru Police Headquarters, the Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, said that the police cannot disregard presidential directives. However, he clarified that they are currently awaiting instructions from the IGP.
Joe Oloya, the Aswa East Regional Police Spokesperson emphasized the importance of constant care for individuals with mental health challenges. "This incident highlights the need for proper supervision to prevent such avoidable tragedies," he said.
After Okidi's burial on January 7, Ocaka sought a cultural resolution through clan leaders, but Okidi’s relatives rejected this and reported the case to Agago Central Police Station on January 11. Police registered a case of murder by assault.
The reshuffle includes the transfer of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Geoffrey Musana, who has been moved from the Directorate of Welfare and Production to become the police attaché in South Sudan.