Ngora, Uganda: Shock and grief have engulfed Teso Progressive Secondary School (TEPA) in Ngora District on Tuesday morning after a police officer, in company of an armed military woman, reportedly shot and killed a student during an attempted arrest.
The incident, which occurred on 18 November 2025, unfolded as security personnel responded to a call from the school administration regarding an undisclosed disciplinary matter.
According to preliminary accounts, the fatal bullet that killed the student also struck a teacher in the chest before exiting through his throat. The teacher, who was not immediately identified, was rushed to Mbale and later transferred to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital, where medical staff say he is in stable condition.
How the Shooting Happened
A police report filed by John Omugur, the school director, indicates that PC Ijobu Sylvia and Pte Atim Agnes booked out under reference NGORA SD Ref 22/18/11/2025 after receiving a call from the school.
When they arrived at TEPA, they reportedly encountered resistance from Okiror Gabriel, the student who later died.
Omugur told police that Pte Atim allegedly grabbed an AK-47 rifle from PC Ijobu Sylvia during the confrontation and fired at Gabriel, hitting him in the chest. He died instantly. The same bullet reportedly struck a geography teacher who was standing nearby.
The case was later registered under NGORA CRB 352/2025, according to police references seen by this publication.
Nurse Victory Awor from Soroti Regional Referral Hospital confirmed that the injured teacher is receiving proper care and “is doing well”.
Public, Leaders React
The shooting has triggered widespread condemnation from residents, parents, and local leaders across Ngora and neighbouring districts.
Christine Abeja, Woman MP aspirant under the Democratic Front, condemned the killing and urged residents to cooperate with police during arrests to avoid escalation.
Daniel Okello, a parent, described the killing as unprofessional and urged calm as investigations proceed.
Independent MP candidate for Kapir County, James Oleja (Acomorok), called for immediate prosecution of those responsible, arguing that the incident should serve as a lesson to security officers.
District leaders have also stepped in. Hon. Mike Odongo, LCV chairperson of Katakwi District, confirmed that the leadership and security team will meet the family on 19 November 2025 to prepare for burial arrangements, urging the community to remain calm.
Family members of the deceased demanded answers, with Simon Obelon, father and brother to Gabriel, questioning the circumstances that led to the shooting. “We’re not happy with the way the administration is doing. Our child finished exams, but he was asked to return for two papers. He went back, and he was killed,” Obelon said.
Sources indicate the armed female officer was wearing military fatigues and a red cap at the time of the shooting. Police have stated that a comprehensive report will be issued once investigations are concluded.
The incident has sparked fear and confusion within the school, with students, teachers, and parents awaiting clarity on the exact circumstances that led to the fatal shooting.
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