Soroti pupil murder: Suspects return to court on Thursday

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The suspects in the murder of a pupil in Soroti city are set to return to court on Thursday (April 3) for the mention.

On February 5 this year, the body of five-year-old Joan Faith Apio — a twin — was found dumped in a latrine at Jozan Nursery and Primary School in East Division, Soroti city.

Subsequently, the Police arrested eight people, including two juveniles, in connection with Apio’s death

The accused, who were charged in court on February 19 and later sent on remand in different prisons, are;

▪️ James Edoket, school headmaster

▪️ Joseph Okedi, school director

▪️ Suzan Vivian Ariokot, Okedi’s wife and school co-director

▪️ Osula Adongo, school matron

▪️ Valentin Opio, school cook

▪️ John Bosco Obotol, Police officer in Soroti city (also brother of Okedi)

▪️ Two minors

 

The case will be coming up for mention before Grade One Magistrate Apollo Kibirige Kasujja.

Like in the last two appearances, the accused will likely attend Thursday's session remotely — via Zoom.

School director Joseph Okedi (Left) and school matron appearing from Kumi prison virtually. (Credit: Godfrey Ojore)

In March, the state informed court that the inquiries into the case were not complete, leading to the adjournment of the case.

Once the investigations are concluded, the case will be committed to the High Court, which has the jurisdiction to try capital offenses.

After the court session in early March, scores of people stormed Jozan Nursery and Primary School, forced their way in and set some of the school facilities on fire.

Once a vibrant school is now a shadow of its past. (Credit: Godfrey Ojore)

They torched the office of the school director and dormitories.

Anti-riot Police personnel deployed at the scene fired tear gas in an attempt to disperse the mob, but their efforts were unsuccessful — until the arrival of reinforcement in the form of army personnel.

Thirteen people, including Soroti city Woman MP Joan Alobo, were arrested following those clashes. 

They were arrested and charged with arson, malicious damage, house breaking and inciting violence. They all denied the charges.

Alobo was granted a cash bail of sh2m while the other dozen co-accused were remanded and are set to return to court on April 17 for hearing of their case.

The school was closed and the city authorities advised the parents to register their children in other schools.