Amolatar: Six Arrested After Viral Video of Teen’s Brutal Beating
Police in Amolatar District have detained six individuals after a shocking video emerged, showing a 19-year-old girl being violently beaten by three men.
The suspects, identified as leaders of the Oumolao clan, were arrested during police raids on their homes. Among the accused are Sam Omunu, Speaker of the Oumolao Clan; Alex Awena, Vice Clan Chief; Tonny Alyeno; James Okwir; Bonny Ocen, LC1 Chairperson of Acanmakicinge village; and his defense secretary, Darius Ojok.
The arrests followed the circulation of a disturbing video on Monday, in which the victim, Annet Akwir, is seen being beaten with sticks while one man steps on her head. The incident occurred in Acanmakacinga village, Opali Sub-county.
Reports reveal that Akwir and her uncle, Nelson Opon, faced the violent punishment on accusations of incest, allegedly on the orders of clan leaders.
The incident is said to have unfolded on the night of November 17, 2024. Akwir reportedly noticed movement outside her home and found her uncle, Opon, who asked for drinking water before entering. Suspicion arose when Akwir’s brother, Solomon Okello, found Opon’s bicycle outside, prompting him to raise an alarm that alerted the clan.
The duo was allegedly locked in the house overnight and accused of sexual misconduct. The next morning, clan leader James Okwir reportedly ordered Akwir to be beaten, inflicting 20 lashes and imposing a fine of Shs 60,000. LC1 Chairperson Bonny Ocen, also seen in the video, reportedly directed additional punishment, resulting in both Akwir and Opon receiving 20 more lashes each.
The case was reported to Amolatar Central Police Station, where authorities have filed charges of torture. North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema condemned the attack, calling it a “barbaric approach” to discipline.
Medical assistance has been provided to Akwir, and police are working to locate Opon, who is still missing. “This form of discipline is unacceptable and barbaric, regardless of the accusations. We are fully committed to ensuring justice is served,” said SP Okema.
In Uganda, incest is a criminal offense under Section 149 of the Penal Code Act, carrying severe penalties, including life imprisonment for cases involving minors. Beyond legal consequences, incest remains a significant cultural taboo, often resulting in social exclusion.
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