Priest on the run after boy’s body found in Buyende church store

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Police in Buyende district have launched a manhunt for a Catholic priest and two other suspects following the suspected murder of a 14-year-old boy who was allegedly assaulted and locked overnight in a parish store, leading to his death.

The key suspect has been identified as Rev. Fr Silver Owori Osuna, 33, a Catholic priest attached to Wesunire Parish in Buyende district.

Police are also pursuing Robert Gabula, a driver, and other individuals yet to be identified in connection with the incident.

The deceased has been identified as Joseph Kirya, a resident of Wesunire in Makanga ward, Buyende town council.

According to Michael Kasadha, the Busoga North regional police spokesperson, preliminary investigations suggest that the teenager allegedly stole five million shillings from the priest’s room while he was away.

When Rev Fr Owori returned and discovered the money missing, he reportedly launched a manhunt for the boy, assisted by Gabula and another individual identified only as Waiswa, according to Kasadha.

“Kirya was reportedly apprehended on Friday, August 1, 2025, at around 5:00 p.m. and taken to the parish. It is alleged that while at the church, he was assaulted and later locked inside a store overnight,” said Kasadha.

The following morning, Saturday, August 2, at around 9:00 a.m., Rev Fr Owori went to the police and reported a case of theft against Kirya. He also requested officers to go and pick up the suspect from the church premises.

However, when police responded and arrived at the church, a staff member directed them to the store where Kirya was reportedly being held. To their shock, officers discovered the lifeless body of the boy lying inside. By that time, the priest had fled the scene.

A team of detectives was immediately dispatched to reinforce the first responders. The scene was documented, and the boy’s body was examined and later handed over to the family for a dignified burial.

Police say inquiries are ongoing to establish more details and bring all those responsible to justice.

“We strongly condemn the illegal detention and acts of mob justice that led to the death of this juvenile,” said Kasadha. “We remind the public that while anyone can effect an arrest, the power to detain a suspect after arrest lies solely with the Uganda Police Force. Taking the law into one’s own hands is a criminal act.”

Police have urged anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of Rev. Fr Owori, Gabula or their accomplices to come forward.