Lira man arrested for allegedly killing wife in domestic violence incident

8 April 2025, 4:12 pm

By Sarah Ejang

In a tragic turn of events, police in Lira City West Division have apprehended Otiri George, a 61-year-old man suspected of murdering his wife, Ajok Santa, 40, during a domestic dispute. The incident, which has shocked the local community, occurred on the morning of April 7, 2025, at their home in Aminya cell, Amuca ward.

According to an official report filed by Ekwang Nelson, the couple, who had been married for over three decades, were engaged in a heated argument that escalated into violence. Eyewitness accounts suggest that Otiri allegedly slapped Ajok with such force that she fell and lost consciousness.

Friends and neighbors quickly intervened, transporting Ajok to Ronam Health Centre. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries the following day at around 8:30 a.m.

North Kyoga Region Police Spokesperson SP Jimmy Patrick Okema confirmed the details surrounding the case, stating that an investigative team comprised of the Officer-in-Charge of Criminal Investigations, homicide detectives, and Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) visited the location to gather evidence and document their findings. Witness statements have also been collected as part of the ongoing investigation.

In accordance with standard procedures, Ajok’s body was moved to the Lira Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for a postmortem examination, while Otiri remains in police custody awaiting further legal processes.

SP Okema expressed deep concern regarding the rising frequency of murder cases in the region, many of which stem from domestic violence, disputes over theft, bar altercations, and even superstitions tied to witchcraft. “It’s quite unfortunate that we are receiving so many cases of murder due to domestic misunderstandings and other avoidable causes,” he lamented.

Authorities have emphasised their commitment to ensuring justice prevails and have urged community members to seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts, rather than resorting to violence. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for intervention and support systems for families facing domestic disputes.