Masindi shopkeeper burns 13-year-old to death
“The public should remain calm as investigations continue, and we want to assure them that justice will be served,” he added.
Masindi: Police in Masindi District are investigating a tragic incident in which a 13-year-old boy, Apuli Philips, died after allegedly being set on fire by a shopkeeper.
The incident occurred on March 10, 2026, at Ejinga-Toashirt Trading Centre in Nyantonzi Sub-county. The suspect, identified as Otuga Michael, reportedly accused the boy of stealing money from his shop before allegedly pouring petrol on him and setting him ablaze, causing severe burns.
The victim was rushed to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at around 1:00 PM.
Julius Allan Hakiza, the Greater Albertine Region Police Spokesperson confirmed the incident on Friday, April 3, 2026, stating that the suspect has since been arrested and is currently assisting police with investigations.
Police have registered a case of assault turned murder at Nyantonzi Sub-county Police Station under reference number MSD CRB: 351/2026. “We have registered a case of assault turned murder at Nyantonzi Sub-county Police Station under reference number MSD CRB: 351/2026,” Hakiza said.
He urged the public to remain calm as investigations continue, assuring them that justice will be served. “The public should remain calm as investigations continue, and we want to assure them that justice will be served,” he added.
This incident adds to a series of disturbing child abuse cases previously reported in Masindi District.
In March 2025, police arrested 62-year-old Ajelinda Ongera for allegedly burning her four-year-old grandson, Opakrwoth Kennedy, after accusing him of eating food meant for supper. She reportedly forced the child’s hands into a fire, causing serious burns.
In October 2025, another case involved a woman identified as Akello Everlyne, who was arrested for allegedly burning her nine-year-old daughter’s mouth with hot charcoal over groundnuts. The incident occurred in Tantara Village, Kyakamese Parish, Pakanyi Sub-county.
Earlier, in January 2024, a 28-year-old man, Weduga Munguriek, allegedly burned his three-year-old son’s legs as punishment for reportedly stealing a neighbour’s sauce in Bisaju Village, Nyantonzi Sub-county.
According to Annet Karamagi, the Probation and Welfare Officer at Masindi District Local Government, many children continue to suffer due to domestic violence and family breakdown.
“My office is registering a growing number of child neglect cases, mainly due to persistent domestic violence,” she said. “Parents should learn to resolve conflicts peacefully instead of abandoning their children.”
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