Police in the Karamoja sub-region are investigating the sudden deaths of four family members found in their Nakapiripirit home. The deceased are identified as Francis Ekawam, 47, a businessman; his wife Akiriat Asimo; and their two children, Emmanuel Ekwam and Imugala, both aged eight.
The bodies were discovered by neighbors who promptly alerted the police. A fifth family member, described as the youngest child, survived and is currently receiving treatment at Tokora Hospital.
Francis Ekawam, originally from Kidongole sub-county in Bukedea district, had been operating a business in Nakapiripirit. His brother and business partner, Richard Okello, suspects that the family might have ingested poisoned food. Okello mentioned that the surviving child did not consume the catfish prepared for dinner, which could explain why they are still alive.
According to Okello, the family was reported missing after Ekawam failed to open his shop as usual. It was only when neighbors checked on the family that the tragic discovery was made. The bodies are yet to be transported to Teso for burial.
The Karamoja region police spokesman, Mike Longole, has not yet provided a statement regarding the incident.
