Apac Officials Dismiss School Panga Attack Claims as Student Misconduct

Security officials in Apac district have brushed off claims of an organized panga attack at Apac Seed Secondary School, pinning the Easter Sunday violence on student rule-breaking.

At least seven pupils received serious wounds, such as cuts to the neck, back, hands, and legs, after scuffles with local youth outside the school grounds. Early accounts hinted at intruders storming the premises, but probes found no evidence of that.

Resident District Commissioner Andrew Onyuk, the top security figure, explained that the trouble began when students slipped away from campus without permission to attend a village disco following school events.

“There was no attack. These were students who went outside to a disco,” Onyuk stated. The group had joined a talent show and a Jesus resurrection film screening earlier that evening before heading to a trading center.

A dispute with locals turned violent, and some youth trailed the students back toward the school, causing the injuries. Several suspects are now in custody as inquiries proceed.

Head teacher James Keba confirmed all scheduled activities wrapped up peacefully by 9:30 pm, with students accounted for, until the rogue group returned hurt. He stressed no intrusion happened inside and internal checks will address the escape, alongside disciplinary steps.

Local figures like sub-county defence secretary Augustine Okello highlighted weak fencing that aids unauthorized exits, urging community reconciliation to avoid repeats. The 2020-founded government-aided school generally enjoys cordial neighborhood ties.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)