Crime

Woman,29, mysteriously dies at Pastor’s home during prayer ritual

Pallisa, (UG):– The Territorial Police in Pallisa District are conducting a thorough investigation into the sudden death of Akurut Stella, a 29-year-old housewife from Owagalye village, Kaboloi parish, Pallisa sub-county.

The deceased, who had been battling an illness, died on Friday, September 20, 2024, under circumstances that have raised concerns among family members and local authorities.

- Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. -

According to police reports, Akurut Stella, wife to Obonete Michael, had been receiving treatment at a local clinic for a recurring health issue for some time.

On the day of her death, she was rushed to the clinic after her condition deteriorated. A health worker at the clinic diagnosed her with severe anaemia and recommended immediate transfer to Pallisa General Hospital for a blood transfusion.

However, instead of following the medical advice, Akurut’s family and friends decided to seek alternative help. They took her to the home of Okupa Christopher, a self-proclaimed pastor in Apetete (Akisim), believing that prayers would improve her condition.

Akurut remained at Pastor Okupa’s home for seven days, during which her health worsened. Tragically, she passed away on the seventh day while still under the care of the pastor.

The matter was reported to Kameke Police Post, prompting swift action from the police. Investigations, registered under case number PAL DEF 017/2024, are currently underway. Scene of crime officers and detectives from Pallisa Police processed and documented the area, collecting key evidence from Pastor Okupa’s home. Several exhibits were recovered to assist with the investigation, and relevant statements from witnesses have been recorded.

- Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. -

The body of the deceased was taken to Pallisa General Hospital for a postmortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. The police have not yet released the results of the postmortem.

Speaking about the case, SP Semewo Samuel, the Acting Police Spokesperson for Bukedi North Region, stated that the investigation is ongoing and that all efforts are being made to uncover any possible wrongdoing.

“We are committed to ensuring that a thorough investigation is conducted to establish the facts surrounding this unfortunate incident,” he said.

The death of Akurut Stella has left the community in shock, with many questioning the decision to forgo medical treatment in favour of prayers. While faith-based healing is a common practice in some areas, health experts warn that it should not replace necessary medical interventions in critical situations.

As inquiries continue, the police have urged the public to remain calm and patient while investigations proceed. More information is expected to be released as the case unfolds.

- Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. -


Do you have a story or an opinion to share? Email us on: dailyexpressug@gmail.com Or join the Daily Express WhatsApp channel for all the latest news and trends or join the Telegram Channel for the latest updates.

Daily Express is Uganda's number one source for breaking news, National news, policy analytical stories, e-buzz, sports, and general news.

We resent fake stories in all our published stories, and are driven by our tagline of being Accurate, Fast & Reliable.

Copyright © 2024 Daily Express Uganda. A Subsidiary of Rabiu Express Media Group Ltd.

To Top
Translate »