By Mike Rwothomio 

A suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Rusugo Village, Alla Parish, Dranya Sub-County, Koboko District, killing 5-year-old Junior Joseph on April 26, 2025.

According to the police statement released by West Nile regional Police Spokesperson SP Collins Asea, the high-order explosion occurred at approximately 6:00 PM when Junior, a pupil at Anyangako Primary School, handled an unidentified object in his uncle’s compound.

The blast propelled him 20 meters, causing severe facial trauma. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Koboko Hospital.

Koboko Central Police Station, led by D/Sgt. Alionzi Joseph and supported by military personnel under SP Kadogo, secured the blast site on April 27, 2025.

Preliminary forensic analysis confirmed an IED, with ongoing investigation into its origin and composition (Case: KOB CRB 189/2025, SD Ref 05/26/04/2025).

Authorities initiated public safety campaigns, urging vigilance and reporting of suspicious objects. Parents were educated on risks associated with unidentified items.

A similar IED incident in Koboko Municipality in 2022 killed one pupil and injured others.

The incident underscores persistent threats from unexploded ordnance or maliciously placed IEDs in the region.

West Nile Regional Police, through SP Asea Collins, emphasized enhanced public safety measures and heightened community vigilance to mitigate future risks.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa