Ombaci College suspends students after violent riot and vandalism
The school has not yet communicated if or when the suspended students will be allowed to return.
Arua: St. Joseph’s College Ombaci in Arua City has suspended all Senior 2 and Senior 3 students indefinitely following a violent riot that broke out on the evening of August 9, 2025, resulting in significant damage to school property.
According to police report AYE CRB 141/25, filed by the school’s Headteacher Ondoga Charles, 47, the unrest began at approximately 8:00 PM during supper time.
SP Jimmy Anguyo Baiga, the West Nile regional police spokesperson, confirmed the incident and said the violence was sparked by a confrontation involving a Senior 2 student and the Head Prefect, identified as Jura Daniel, a Senior 5 student.
The altercation reportedly started when the Head Prefect confronted the student over disorderly conduct and advised him to follow school rules.
The student allegedly resisted, leading to a brief scuffle during which the prefect slapped him once. This triggered outrage among a group of Senior 2 and Senior 3 students, who then mobilized and began to riot.
“The group vandalized windows, dormitory doors, glass panes, and about 10 meters of the school’s perimeter wall,” SP Anguyo stated.
Police from Ayivu East Police Division, along with the District Police Commander (DPC) and a West Nile regional team, quickly responded to contain the situation. Officers were deployed to secure the premises and prevent further destruction.
A Regional Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) conducted a forensic investigation, and CCTV footage was reviewed to identify those involved. Statements were also recorded from witnesses. So far, no arrests have been made, but investigations are ongoing.
In response to the unrest, the School Board of Governors, in an emergency meeting with administrators, resolved to suspend all Senior 2 and Senior 3 students, who were ordered to vacate the school premises immediately.
SP Jimmy Anguyo urged parents and guardians to support ongoing investigations and to engage with school authorities to find a path forward.
“We call upon the parents to cooperate as inquiries continue to ensure accountability and restore order at the institution,” he said.
The school has not yet communicated if or when the suspended students will be allowed to return.
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