In Kole district, a Police officer has been arrested for shooting and injuring a civilian at Agege Trading Center during an alleged gambling incident.
The officer in custody is identified as Police Constable (PC) Patrick Onen, who was stationed at Agege Police Post in Kole District.
On July 29, 2023, the 58-year-old Onen fired a shot at James Ogwal in the stomach during an altercation at Agege Trading Center. Tragically, Ogwal passed away while being transported to Lira city for medical attention.
According to Jimmy Patrick Okema, the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, PC Patrick Onen responded to a conflict at the trading center alone. The altercation arose when Ongu Omara accused Ojok Opio of stealing his 2000/=, leading to a physical fight in front of Isaac Omuge’s shop. As the confrontation escalated and the officer attempted to arrest Ojok Opio, who was reportedly intoxicated, the community members joined in, hurling insults and stones at the officer.
In an effort to disperse the angry crowd and protect himself, PC Onen fired live bullets into the air. Tragically, one of the bullets struck a person in the stomach, resulting in the civilian’s death.
The deceased’s body is currently at the Lira Regional Referral Hospital mortuary, awaiting postmortem examination. The police have recovered the gun used by the officer, as well as the cartridges used during the incident. Statements from witnesses have also been recorded at Kole Central Police Station.
The incident has been registered as a murder by shooting case at CPS Kole, and investigations are underway. The police spokesperson expressed condolences to the bereaved family and urged the public to show respect to officers while they carry out their official duties.
