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.”
The fire, suspected to have been deliberately set, reduced property worth millions to ashes, including household items, food, and important documents.
Over 30 people in Lawuma village, Ngekidi parish in Latanya Sub-County, Pader District are homeless following a devastating fire that destroyed four homes on Wednesday afternoon.
The fire, suspected to have been deliberately set, reduced property worth millions to ashes, including household items, food, and important documents.
Bob Okello Oywak, the LC 3 chairperson of Latanya sub-county said the families have everything and lack food, shelter, or scholastic materials for their children.
//Cue in; "Macalo Acholi ka peko..
Cue out; ...dano me families egii."//
The affected include Charles Ongwen, whose two houses were destroyed, leaving him and over ten family members stranded. Another victim, Quinto Ojok Opaba lost his home and his belongings, and Godfrey Opio, who also had over ten members in his household.
According to local leaders, fires in the area are often started by hunters, but in this case, arson is suspected. “We always warn people against reckless burning, but such incidents keep happening,” Okello said.
//Cue in; "Yam con tim lac...
Cue out; ...weko dano ka ma rac."//
Pader District Police Commander Jackson Bogere recently warned that anyone caught setting fires illegally faces imprisonment. “If we find anyone practicing it, they will be produced before the court and face prosecution,” he stated.
As investigations continue, local authorities urge residents to report any suspects to assist the affected families in rebuilding their lives to get justice.
Lakomekec Kinyera
Freelancer