A quiet evening turned chaotic in Akwoyo Cell, Lira City East Division, when a suspected teargas canister exploded inside a local bar, leaving one man seriously injured and two women affected by the blast.
The incident happened around 5:00 PM on Friday, May 3, 2025, at Olik Okelo Yao Trading Center. According to police reports from Lira City Central Police Station (CPS), the explosion occurred inside a bar owned by 48-year-old businesswoman, Amongi Molly.
The suspect, Emuna Emma, a 39-year-old man and resident of Onege Cell, reportedly entered the bar after failing to find food at a nearby restaurant. He asked Amongi Molly for food, but she told him it wasn’t ready yet.
He then joined others in the bar hall and danced for a while. After dancing, Emuna sat on a bench and, to the surprise of everyone, pulled a teargas canister from his pocket. He began hitting it on the bench—possibly trying to open it or tamper with it. Unfortunately, the safety pin of the canister got dislodged, leading to an explosion right in his hands.
Serious Injuries and Panic
The blast severely injured Emuna, cutting off his left hand and injuring fingers on his right hand. He was immediately rushed for medical attention. Witnesses said the scene was terrifying, with people screaming and running out of the bar in fear.
Two women, Amongi Molly and Atim Santa (a 52-year-old farmer), were also affected by the explosion. Although they did not suffer visible injuries, they inhaled the gas and became weak and disoriented. Atim Santa has since recovered, but Molly remains unconscious.
What Did the Suspect Say?
When questioned, Emuna Emma claimed he had picked the teargas canister along a road near Ojwina. His reasons for carrying the dangerous device and choosing to tamper with it in a public place are still unclear. Police are now working to find out where the canister came from and what Emuna’s intentions were.
Ongoing Investigations
The case was officially reported the following morning, on Saturday, May 4, 2025, at 8:13 AM by Ogwal Quinto, the LC1 Chairperson of Akwoyo Cell. Police have since opened an inquiry into the matter.
Key tasks ahead include:
Finding out the source of the explosive device.
Understanding Emuna’s motive for bringing and triggering the device.
Taking official statements from the suspect, victims, and any witnesses.
Compiling a full case file for state authorities.
Community Shocked and Concerned
The incident has left residents in shock. Many are asking how someone could get hold of a teargas canister and why he brought it to a crowded area. There are also growing concerns about public safety and the need for tighter control of dangerous materials.
As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available
