Suspected bomb blast claims life of 5-year-old in Koboko
He was pronounced dead on arrival at Koboko Hospital.
Koboko: A suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Rusugo Village, Alla Parish, Dranya Sub-County, Koboko District, tragically killing a 5-year-old boy, Junior Joseph.
According to a statement released by SP Collins Asea, the West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, the high-intensity explosion occurred around 6:00 PM when the child, a pupil at Anyangako Primary School, came into contact with an unidentified object in his uncle’s compound.
The blast forcefully threw the boy approximately 20 meters, inflicting severe facial injuries. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Koboko Hospital.
On April 27, a joint security team led by Detective Sergeant Alionzi Joseph from Koboko Central Police Station, and supported by military personnel under SP Kadogo, cordoned off the scene for investigation.
Preliminary forensic analysis confirmed the device was an IED. Investigations into its origin and chemical composition are ongoing under Case File: KOB CRB 189/2025, SD Ref: 05/26/04/2025.
In response, authorities have launched public safety campaigns in the region, encouraging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious objects. Parents are being advised to educate their children about the dangers of unknown items.
This tragic incident mirrors a similar IED explosion in Koboko Municipality in 2022, which claimed the life of one pupil and injured several others, highlighting ongoing threats from unexploded ordnance and potential deliberate placements of explosive devices.
SP Asea emphasized the importance of community awareness and cooperation in preventing future tragedies. “We urge all citizens to be cautious and report any suspicious items to the nearest security personnel. Collective vigilance is crucial in ensuring public safety.”
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