Stepfather Accused of Burning Child's Hand Over Shs200 Coin

Authorities in Amolatar District are investigating a disturbing case of alleged child abuse where a five-year-old girl was reportedly tortured by her stepfather. The incident, which occurred in Epyel Cell, Amolatar Town Council, involved the stepfather, Nickson Esongu, allegedly tying dry grass around the child’s hand and setting it alight. This extreme punishment was reportedly administered over an accusation that the girl had stolen a Shs200 coin.

According to reports, the girl, identified only as Prisca, denied stealing the money. Her mother, Dillish Akullu, stated that her husband had frequently complained about money disappearing from their home and that they suspected the child. On the day of the alleged incident, Shs200 was reportedly found missing, leading to the confrontation and subsequent burning of the child’s hand.

The injured child managed to escape to a neighbor’s home, alerting local authorities. The Local Council I chairperson was informed, and police were called to the scene. Both Esongu and Akullu were subsequently arrested and are currently detained at Amolatar Central Police Station.

Police have confirmed the incident and condemned the alleged abuse. The North Kyoga Police spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, stated that charges of aggravated child torture and abuse would likely be preferred against the suspect. This offense carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment under Ugandan law, particularly when the victim is a minor.

During preliminary questioning, the child reportedly spoke of ongoing neglect and hunger, claiming that she and the couple’s two biological children received different levels of care. Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with police urging parents and guardians to ensure the protection of children from all forms of abuse.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)