Midnight knife attack claims S1 student life in Amolatar

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AMOLATAR — A 16-year-old Senior One student of Kangai Secondary School has been killed in a brutal midnight stabbing in Amolatar district.

The victim, identified as Kenneth Odon, was attacked at about 2:00am in Abedober Village, Arwotcek sub-county, according to family and local leaders.

His grandfather, Sam Onyang, said Odon had been walking home with a friend, only identified as Okot, when an unknown assailant approached them on a bicycle and launched the attack.

The attacker allegedly stabbed Okot from behind before turning on Odon, stabbing him twice in the chest when he turned to see what was happening. In a desperate attempt to save him, Okot placed the injured Odon on a bicycle and tried to rush him to safety, but he collapsed and died just a few metres away.

Okot, who sustained stab wounds to the back, was rushed to a clinic in Anyangoga trading centre and is currently receiving treatment.

Local authorities said Police later arrived at the scene and conveyed the body to Amolatar Health Centre IV mortuary for a postmortem examination.

Five arrested

Police have since arrested five suspects in connection with the killing, who are being held at Amolatar Central Police Station as investigations continue.

Preliminary information from local sources suggests the attack may have stemmed from a dispute over a girl. It is alleged that the suspect had earlier clashed with the deceased over the matter, before returning later on a bicycle, reportedly in the company of the same girl, and attacking the two youths.

Amolatar Resident District Commissioner Francis Okello Odoki described the incident as “very unfortunate,” noting that security teams are still piecing together what exactly transpired.

“Our team is on the ground investigating. We have received information that there may have been a fight over a girl after a disco, but we are working to establish the full facts,” he said.

Odoki urged parents to be more vigilant, especially during school holidays, warning against late-night movements by children.

“When a child leaves home past midnight to attend discos or night events, it raises serious concerns. Parents must take responsibility and monitor where their children go and who they associate with,” he added.

School, Community in Mourning

Odon had recently completed his Primary Leaving Examinations at Abaler Primary School and had just joined Kangai Secondary School this year.

In a statement, the headteacher, Joel Okello, confirmed the tragic loss, describing Odon as a valued member of the Senior One class.

“We are devastated by this loss. Kenneth’s presence will be deeply missed by his classmates, teachers, and the entire school community,” the statement read.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.

Growing Concern

The killing has sent shockwaves through Arwotcek Sub-county, with leaders condemning the violence and calling for calm as investigations continue.

Authorities say more details will be released once inquiries are complete.