By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Ngora, Uganda – The management of Teso Progressive Secondary School has made a significant contribution towards the burial expenses of Senior Three student Gabriel Okiror, who was tragically shot dead last week by an officer in military fatigues, sparking widespread shock and outrage in Ngora District.
The school’s contribution of UGX 10.5 million was handed over to the organising committee chairman, Abdullah Azizi Ongodia, during a meeting held at the Resident District Commissioner’s office on Friday, November 21, 2025.
According to Ongodia, the school had initially pledged UGX 9 million, but the director later increased the contribution.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has also made a separate contribution of UGX 5 million towards the burial expenses, bringing the total amount pledged so far to UGX 15.5 million.
Okiror’s mother, Hellen Ikanu, expressed her gratitude for the school’s financial support, but her pain and anguish were palpable as she appealed to the security agencies to ensure that the perpetrator is brought to justice.
“I request the security agencies to ensure the culprit is brought on board so that my son’s soul can rest in peace,” she said, fighting back tears.
Teso Progressive SS Director John Omungur acknowledged the school’s contribution and apologised to the bereaved family, pledging continued support during this difficult time.
“We stand with the family during this difficult moment,” Omungur said.
District Police Commander Denis Pahani confirmed that the shooting occurred after two officers, PC Ijobu Sylvia and Pte Atim Agnes, booked out from Ngora Police Station under reference NGORA SD Ref 22/18/11/2025 following a phone call from the school.
Police have launched a manhunt for the officers, and Pahani vowed that they would be tracked down and brought to justice.
“We shall trace them wherever they are hiding,” Pahani said.
The District LCV Chairperson, Hon. Mike Odongo, has urged the family to remain calm as investigations progress, and confirmed that the burial will take place on Sunday, November 23, 2025.
Deputy RDC John Magazi Lukooki, who chaired the meeting, commended the school and security teams for their humanitarian response, while Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Sam Okiding, confirmed the army’s contribution of UGX 5m for burial expenses and UGX 2m for medical treatment of a teacher injured during the shooting.
“We are going to establish the circumstances under which the student was killed and ensure all culprits are brought to book,” Gen. Okiding said.
