Lira, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | A well-known Lira City businessman is currently in police custody for fatally shooting his son during a heated altercation. Haji Joe Ogwang, residing in Ireda Estate, Lira City East Division, allegedly killed his son, Aaron Okello, at Tipper stage in Kamuswahili Cell on Tuesday while conducting his daily business.

The conflict arose when Okello demanded money from Ogwang, resulting in a struggle during which Okello tried to disarm his father. In response, Ogwang fired a bullet, fatally injuring his son. Despite being rushed to Lira Medical Center, Okello was declared dead upon arrival. Ogwang voluntarily surrendered to the Lira-City Central Police Station.

Preliminary findings, according to Mr. Patrick Jimmy Okema, the North Kyoga Police Spokesperson, indicate that Okello was a UPDF deserter with a history of violence. A Pistol No UG IND 99702870 and 5 rounds of ammunition were recovered. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the legality of the pistol’s acquisition.

The deceased’s body is currently at Lira Regional Referral Hospital’s mortuary pending a postmortem examination.

In an unexpected twist, several city residents have taken to social media advocating for Ogwang’s immediate release, claiming that his actions curbed violent crimes in the city. They allege that the deceased was involved in criminal activities, particularly in areas like Central Park and Ireda Shamba. Described by a former schoolmate as a “violent person,” Okello reportedly engaged in physical altercations with various individuals, including school authorities.