OYAM: Five more people are in police custody in the Oyam district in connection with the murder of 72-year-old Albina Akoi. The suspects are believed to be part of the mob of worshippers that ganged up against Akoi on Friday last week on accusations of practising witchcraft.
It all started when the “Holy Spirit” allegedly singled out the deceased during a prayer session led by Pastor Lawrence Aguga. The congregation then descended on Akoi, forcing her to run for 6 km towards the prayer ground while being assaulted by the congregation. She collapsed and died before reaching the prayer ground.
Subsequently, police arrested Geoffrey Bua, who hosted the pastor and several other members of the congregation while eight others were on the run. Now, Jimmy Patrick Okema, the North Kyoga Police Spokesperson, says that they have picked up more than five suspects.
They include Catherine Apio, a resident of Aryeke trading centre in Acuti parish, Denis Awongo, Norman Opira, and Tonny Odongo, all businessmen, and Lawrence Opio, a clan chief, all from Oyam district. Opio is locked up at Opit police station pending transfer to Oyam.
Okema says that police have not been able to arrest the pastor who led the congregation to Akoi’s home despite knowing his hiding location. Efforts to have pastor Aguga Lawrence arrested from his hiding place are underway. He should know that we know where he is hiding, therefore he should just report himself to the nearest police facility,” he said.