A shocking and tragic incident unfolded at Teso Progressive Academy (TEPA) in Ngora Town Council on the morning of November 18, 2025. At around 10:37 AM, a deadly confrontation resulted in the death of a 20-year-old student, Okiror Gabriel, and left a teacher seriously injured. The incident involved Pte Atim Agnes, a UPDF soldier, and PC IJobu Sylvia, a police officer from Ngora CPS, who had been called to the school by the director, Omugur John.
According to police reports, Okiror Gabriel had a history of violent behavior and theft, having returned to school on the same day after being away since mid-October. Upon arrival, the officers reportedly encountered resistance from Gabriel. During the confrontation, Pte Atim Agnes allegedly grabbed an AK-47 from PC IJobu Sylvia and fired. The bullet struck Gabriel in the chest, killing him instantly, and also hit Majja Bernard, a geography teacher who was seated nearby. Bernard was rushed to Mbale for urgent medical attention and survived.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and fear, with the body of the deceased found half-dressed on the school compound. Only one cartridge was recovered at the scene, and the AK-47 used in the incident had a magazine containing 29 rounds. The firearm’s serial number is UG POL 56-5811520.35798. Police confirmed that the incident has been logged under SD ref 25/18/11/2025 (CRB 352/2025), and investigations are ongoing.
The shooting has raised serious concerns about the presence of armed personnel in schools and the use of live ammunition during school interventions. Efforts are underway to apprehend both Pte Atim Agnes and PC IJobu Sylvia, who are currently at large. Authorities are also gathering more eyewitness accounts, conducting forensic analysis, and reviewing the circumstances that led to such a fatal outcome.
This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the community, with students, teachers, and parents left in mourning. The incident underscores the urgent need for strict protocols when armed personnel are deployed in educational institutions and raises questions about student discipline and school safety measures.
