The 12 year old boy is suspected to have committed suicide.
The community of Morungole Cell has been thrown into pandemonium after a 12-year-old boy was found dead, hanging from a tree, in what police are investigating as a case of suicide.
The incident has ignited a wave of public outcry, with residents questioning the circumstances leading to the boy's death.
According to the police report issued by IP Mike Longole, Karamoja Police Spokesperson, the tragedy unfolded on the night of January 4, 2025, during a New Year's celebration at the family home of the deceased.
Family members and visitors had gathered to mark the beginning of the new year with food and festivities.
According to an eyewitness who preferred anonymity at around 6:00 p.m., the boy, identified as the son of Gwangole Philip, approached the kitchen to request for food.
The cooks allegedly refused, stating that the visitors had to be served first.
Adding to the young boy's distress, the cooks reportedly mocked him, using nicknames that implied he was "not a real Pokot" because he had undergone circumcision in a hospital rather than through traditional means.
The boy left the home around 8:00 p.m. and was not seen again until the next morning when residents found his lifeless body hanging from a tree approximately 100 meters from the family home.
"The police visited the scene, recorded statements, and conducted a postmortem before releasing the body to the family for burial," IP Longole confirmed. "Inquiries into the incident have commenced."
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from community leaders and residents. Many are demanding accountability from those involved in mocking the boy.
"This is a tragic loss that could have been avoided," said Joseph Cheptoo, a local elder. "It's heartbreaking to think that words and actions meant as jokes could push someone so young to this point."
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Activists have also weighed in, calling for more awareness and support for mental health among minors.
"This case highlights the urgent need to educate communities on the impact of bullying and the importance of mental well-being," said Mary Chepengat, a child rights advocate in Karamoja.
As the investigation continues, the community remains shaken by the tragedy. Calls for justice and sensitivity in handling cultural matters have grown louder, with residents urging authorities to prioritize the mental health of children in vulnerable communities.
