Kwania, July 9, 2025 – A domestic dispute turned deadly in Awei Village, Goi Parish, Atongtidi Subcounty, Kwania District, on the night of July 7, 2025, claiming the life of 45-year-old businessman Opio Robert. The territorial police are investigating the murder, allegedly committed by the victim’s 20-year-old son, Obonyo Ronald.

The Fatal Confrontation

At approximately 10:00 PM on Monday, Obonyo Ronald, a peasant farmer, returned home from a three-day fishing trip and reportedly accused his wife, Auma Oliver, of infidelity. The ensuing argument escalated into violence. Opio Robert, who had just returned from Agalala Trading Centre, intervened to calm the situation. Tragically, the suspect allegedly turned on his father, beating him severely with sticks. Opio Robert lost consciousness and died while being transported to Aduku Health Centre IV.

Police Investigation Underway

A murder case was promptly registered at Atongtidi Police Post and transferred to Kwania Central Police Station. Investigators, led by D/AIP Iggama William of the Scene of Crime Office, visited the scene but faced challenges documenting evidence due to heightened community tensions. The suspect, who initially fled, was apprehended by police to prevent mob justice and is now in custody.

The deceased’s body was taken to Apac General Hospital’s mortuary for a postmortem to confirm the cause of death. Police are collecting statements from witnesses and plan to revisit the crime scene with enhanced security for further documentation. Early findings point to domestic issues as the motive, with the level of violence deemed excessive, likely leading to murder charges under sections 171 and 172 of the Penal Code Act.

Community Response and Police Efforts

The tragedy has shaken Awei Village, exposing the devastating impact of domestic violence. SP PJ Okema, North Kyoga Region’s Public Relations Officer, condemned such acts, citing unresolved conflicts and toxic masculinity as contributing factors. Police are working with local leaders to de-escalate tensions and ensure the legal process proceeds smoothly.

SP Okema urged the public to:

• Seek early intervention for relationship issues.
• Report potential threats to authorities.
• Avoid vigilante justice and trust the legal system.

A Plea for Peace

This incident highlights the urgent need to address domestic violence and promote non-violent conflict resolution. The North Kyoga police have pledged a thorough and professional investigation, assuring justice for the victim. They call on residents to value life and collaborate with law enforcement to foster safety and accountability.

Updates on the case will follow as the investigation progresses.

Written by

Francis Oyet

Oyet Francis Opwonya, known commonly as Francis L’Oyet is a Ugandan South Sudanese investigative journalist and software engineer. Oyet is the founder and CEO of Oyet Broadcasting Services (OBS Network), an innovation hub and headquarters of The Northern Press in Uganda and The Malakal Press, located in Malakal City, Upper Nile State in the Greater Upper Nile region of South Sudan