By Mike Rwothomio

Police in Zombo District have initiated a manhunt for unidentified suspects following a vicious aggravated assault on a 28-year-old man in the early hours of New Year's Day.

The victim, Javis Okia, a resident of Akir Cell, Zingili Ward, Paidha Town Council, was ambushed and severely beaten by a group of thugs at Gunter Ville stage along Ofaka Road at approximately 2:00 a.m. on January 1, 2026.

Okia was returning home from New Year celebrations when the gang, known to frequent the area, launched the unprovoked attack.

Okia sustained multiple blunt force trauma injuries, including severe head trauma and extensive swelling to the limbs, head, and eyes and is currently receiving treatment at Goli Health Center IV after Good Samaritans intervened and rushed him to a nearby clinic for initial care before transfer.

West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson SSP Josephine Angucia confirmed the incident, stating that "a Police Form 3 for medical examination was issued to the victim's brother. Names of potential suspects have been provided to authorities, but no arrests have been made yet"

Angucia noted that inquiries are ongoing under Paidha Police Station Diary reference 04/01/01/2026 adding that, Officers are in the process of recording witness statements to build a case for the apprehension and prosecution of the perpetrators.

The victim's mother, Jerese, credited the timely intervention of passersby who saved her son's life, saying he likely would have succumbed to his injuries without their assistance.

Family members described the motive for the aggravated assault as unknown and vowed to pursue justice to its conclusion.

Local sources familiar with the area characterize Gunter Ville stage as a notorious hotspot for criminal activity, including drug trafficking involving marijuana and aviation fuel (locally known as "Thina"), as well as violent robberies targeting valuables such as mobile phones and handbags.

The assault comes just days after a serious robbery at a nearby store, heightening community fears over escalating insecurity.

Several local leaders, speaking on condition of anonymity due to fears of retaliation from unruly youths, have called for the closure of Gunter Ville stage, labeling it a hotbed of crime threatening public safety in Zombo District.

Police have urged anyone with information on the suspects to come forward as the investigation continues.

SSP Josephine Angucia, West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson confirmed the incident.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub.