By KT Reporter
The family of Joan Faith Apio, the pupil who was tragically found murdered in a staff latrine at Jozan Nursery and Primary School in Soroti City on February 5, 2025, has expressed fears over threats they continue to face. They raised these concerns before the Grade One Magistrate Court in Soroti, urging for an expedited trial.
During the proceedings, Grade One Magistrate Apollo Kassujja Kibirige invited those present to voice any concerns before proceeding. John Opolot Oluma, Apio’s father, alongside his wife Caroline Akol, detailed the hardships and insecurity they have endured since their daughter’s death.
Oluma recounted an alarming incident from two weeks ago when two unidentified individuals carrying bags were spotted lurking around their home at night. “We request this court to expedite the trial because we face hardships. We feel the need to safeguard the grave as we suspect these people may be targeting either us, the parents of Apio, or the grave itself,” he pleaded.
He also highlighted the financial burden of attending court every two weeks. “Our family is struggling; we have debts and have even rented out some land to settle these debts since the burial,” Oluma explained. He also pointed to another unsettling incident on March 25, 2025, when masked individuals were seen near their home.
Samuel Omase, a relative, confirmed their fears, stating that unfamiliar individuals have frequently been seen inquiring about the location of Apio’s burial site. “These are all new faces, which has left us in great fear. We have teamed up with local boys to guard the grave at night,” he added.
He further explained that while the family does not receive visitors during the day, strangers often move around their compound at night. The matter has been reported to the LC1 chairperson of Ateuso village, Akoromit Subcounty in Kapelebyong District, who has since alerted the community to remain vigilant. Geofrey Mudawa from Kyogula Advocates, representing the six accused persons, also called for a speedy trial.
He noted that the suspects have already been identified and urged the court to expedite the process. Mudawa criticized the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for keeping the accused on remand while investigations were still ongoing, requesting the prosecution to fast-track the case to allow for potential bail applications.
In response, Magistrate Kibirige adjourned the case until April 17, 2026, when the accused will appear virtually for further mention. He advised Apio’s family to report their safety concerns to the State Attorney for guidance on the next course of action.
The murder case has caused significant unrest in Soroti. On March 6, 2025, residents gathered in large numbers at Soroti Magistrates Court to witness proceedings, only to be angered when the accused appeared virtually. This unrest escalated into violence, leading to the torching of Jozan Nursery and Primary School and the looting of school property.
As of March 6, 2025, eight suspects have been remanded to different facilities in connection with the case. They include the school’s directors, Joseph Okedi and Suzan Vivian Ariokot Okedi, headteacher James Edoket, police officer John Bosco Obotol, school cook Valentine Opio, school matron Osula Adong, and two juveniles who have been placed in juvenile facilities-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
