In a horrifying incident that has shaken the nation, Ugandan police have apprehended 20 individuals suspected of collaborating with the notorious militia group, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The arrests come in the aftermath of a gruesome attack on the Lhubiriha Secondary School in Mpondwe, western Uganda, resulting in the tragic loss of 42 lives.
Providing an update at a press conference, police spokesman Fred Enanga confirmed the detention of the head teacher and the director of the targeted school. The arrests mark a significant step towards uncovering the truth behind the heinous act of violence that unfolded late on Friday.
With the death toll now standing at 42, including 37 students, the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives. The victims, ranging from a 12-year-old girl to a 95-year-old woman, suffered brutal and barbaric acts of violence, including machete attacks, gunshots, and being burned alive within their dormitories. The international community has expressed its condemnation of these horrific killings.
The authorities continue to provide updates on the incident, noting that conflicting reports persist regarding the number of abductions carried out by the assailants, estimated to be between five and seven individuals. Enanga emphasized that such an attack on innocent children is not only barbaric but also constitutes a crime against humanity.
As grief-stricken Ugandans lay their loved ones to rest and await the results of DNA tests for those students who were burned beyond recognition, the pain and anguish continue to reverberate throughout the affected communities. Amid this tragic situation, the authorities report that 15 individuals, including five girls, are still missing, leaving families in a state of uncertainty and desperation.
President Yoweri Museveni, addressing the nation, denounced the perpetrators of this cowardly act of terrorism and vowed to hunt them down until they are eradicated. The pursuit of the assailants remains ongoing, with efforts focused on their retreat towards the porous border with the DRC, accompanied by their abductees.