OYAM, Uganda – The Uganda Police Force in the North Kyoga Region has arrested four suspects in connection with a midnight arson attack that destroyed property belonging to the LC I Chairperson of Ader Village in Oyam District.
According to a statement released by the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the incident occurred on July 23, 2026, at approximately 12:34 a.m. at the homestead of Mr. Odoch Edward, 64, who serves as the LC I Chairperson of Ader Village. Four residential houses at his home were deliberately set on fire.
SP Okema confirmed that preliminary investigations point to a possible motive linked to Mr. Odoch's official duties. The Chairperson had previously been involved in the arrest of Okaka Peter in June 2026 on allegations of cattle theft. Following that arrest, Mr. Odoch reportedly received threats from members of the suspect's family and later alerted police that individuals linked to the suspect had been seen surveying his home in what appeared to be preparations for an attack. SP Okema noted that investigations into those threats were already ongoing at the time of the fire.
Despite efforts by family members and neighbours to extinguish the flames, only two of the four houses were saved. The fire destroyed significant property, including approximately four bags of soya beans, two sacks of maize, kitchen utensils, and various farm tools.
In a significant breakthrough, police received information from a witness indicating that several suspects were overheard discussing plans to facilitate the burning of the complainant's houses on the night of the incident. This intelligence led to the immediate arrest of four individuals: Okaka Peter, Ojok Ambrose, Obura Dennis, and Aremo Bonny, who are now assisting with ongoing investigations.
SP Okema stated that police acted promptly by registering a case of arson, recording statements from the complainant and witnesses, and visiting the scene. The scene was examined by the District Police Commander (DPC), SP Ayikoyo Sydney, alongside the Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO), detectives, and uniformed officers. During the scene examination, critical exhibits were recovered, including a matchbox and a pair of sandals believed to be connected to one of the suspects, which have been submitted for forensic analysis.
The Police Spokesperson confirmed that investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, determine the motive, interrogate the suspects, identify and arrest any other persons involved, and obtain additional witness statements.
In his statement, SP Okema strongly condemned acts of arson and all forms of criminal violence. He urged members of the public to remain calm, cooperate fully with investigators, and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
"The Uganda Police Force strongly condemns acts of arson and all forms of criminal violence. We urge members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with investigators, and refrain from taking the law into their own hands as investigations continue," SP Okema stated.
He assured the public that further updates will be provided as investigations progress.
