Buyende priest on the run as police probe death of 14-year-old

3 August 2025, 9:12 am

By Ali Lukomo

The territorial police in Buyende are actively searching for Reverend Father Owori Silver Osuna, 33, a Catholic priest of Wesunire Parish in Buyende District, along with driver Gabula Robert and others, to assist in investigations into the suspected murder of a 14-year-old juvenile.

The deceased has been identified as Joseph Kirya, a resident of Wesunire, Makanga Ward in Buyende Town Council.

Preliminary findings indicate that the deceased allegedly stole UGX 5,000,000 (five million shillings) from the room of Rev. Fr. Owori Silver Osuna in his absence.

Upon his return, the priest reportedly discovered that the money was missing. Suspecting Kirya of the theft, a search was launched with the help of Gabula and Waiswa. The juvenile was reportedly found on Friday, August 1, 2025, at around 5:00 PM.

Kirya was taken to the church, where he was allegedly assaulted and later locked in the parish store overnight.

On Saturday, August 2, 2025, at around 9:00 AM, Rev. Fr. Owori reported a case of theft to the police and requested officers to pick up the suspect. Upon arrival, a staff member directed the officer to the store where the suspect was being held, only for the officer to find Kirya’s lifeless body.

Meanwhile, the priest had fled the scene.

A team of detectives reinforced the initial responders and visited the crime scene. The body was examined and later handed over to the relatives for burial.

Investigations are ongoing to establish more facts surrounding the incident.

Police have condemned the acts of illegal detention and mob justice allegedly perpetrated against the juvenile.

Authorities emphasised that while individuals may effect an arrest, the legal authority to detain suspects rests solely with law enforcement agencies, specifically the police.