Serere nursery teacher arrested for dumping newborn in pit latrine
In a brave rescue effort, local resident Moses Etadu entered the latrine and retrieved the newborn, who was found damp and with a zip tie around his neck—a common item used in making Kitenge fabric.
The baby being cleaned after being rescued from a 20-foot-deep pit latrine. (Photo by Patrick Odongo)
Patrick Odongo
Journalist @New Vision
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A 25-year-old nursery teacher has been arrested for allegedly dumping her newborn baby boy in a 20-foot-deep pit latrine shortly after giving birth over the weekend.
The suspect, identified as Gloria Icois, had only been employed at Acomia Nursery School in Acomia village, Kateta parish, Kateta sub-county, Serere district, for three weeks before the incident.
According to initial reports, Icois, a native of Katakwi district, misled her colleagues about her pregnancy, claiming it was only four months.
She also reportedly stated that the baby’s father had travelled abroad, without specifying the location.
The baby being cleaned after being rescued from a 20-foot-deep pit latrine. (Photo by Patrick Odongo)
Colleagues recounted that Icois denied any responsibility for the baby, even suggesting that the child might not be hers.
The shocking incident came to light on Sunday, March 16, 2025, when a child using the latrine heard an infant crying and ran off to alert nearby adults.
Residents quickly gathered at the scene, assessing the unfolding emergency.
Francis Okurut, a school administrator, recalled that Icois claimed the baby had accidentally fallen into the latrine while she was relieving herself.
In a brave rescue effort, local resident Moses Etadu entered the latrine and retrieved the newborn, who was found damp and with a zip tie around his neck—a common item used in making Kitenge fabric.
Public reactions were mixed, with many expressing outrage and concern over the incident.
A police officer at the scene, who preferred to remain anonymous, urged the community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasising the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding children’s welfare.
Icois was detained at Kateta Police Station with investigations ongoing to ensure the infant’s safety and address the community’s concerns.
According to a report released by the Uganda Police Fire and Rescue Services last month, in 2024, at least 200 people were rescued from pits, particularly latrines where newborns are often dumped.