By KT Reporter
A nine-month-old baby was allegedly left unattended for 12 hours in Awanyagola Village, Akoboi Sub-county, Katakwi District, prompting police intervention. Police at Katakwi Central Police Station are currently questioning Mary Akello, wife of Charles Emuron, a boda boda rider from Awanyagola, over the incident. Authorities arrested her on Monday, March 02, 2026.
Reports indicate that Emuron returned home at around 9:00 p.m. and found the child crying in the hands of his mother. Akello also returned home at the same time, leading to a family quarrel that escalated into a fight and eventually resulted in her arrest. The reason for allegedly abandoning the infant remains unclear. Residents claim that the woman had previously disappeared from home for a week.
Simon Peter Okwakol, LC I chairperson of Awanyagola Village, confirmed the arrest and said authorities transferred Akello to the Child and Family Protection Unit at Katakwi Central Police Station for further questioning. He urged women to prioritise the welfare of their children despite family disagreements and to avoid actions that may endanger infants. According to Okwakol, this is the fourth case handled by the LC I court involving women accused of neglecting their children and fleeing from home.
Stella Icamude, a resident of Asinge Village, condemned the alleged act, saying it undermines the dignity of women. Wilson Otage, a concerned resident from Aleles, also criticised the behaviour, noting that leaving infants unattended exposes them to illnesses due to hunger and poor care.He called on the government to strengthen measures against child neglect, adding that while rights exist to protect everyone, parents must fulfil their responsibilities.
Police investigations into the matter are ongoing.
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