Two children tragically lost their lives in Moroto District, Uganda on Wednesday due to flash floods. The incidents occurred in the areas of Katanga and Kakoliye, highlighting the dangers of crossing rivers during the rainy season. Moroto is in the northern part of Uganda.
In Kakoliye, 13-year-old Lucia Illukol and her companion Hellen Aleper attempted to cross a river when they were swept away by the torrents. While community members managed to rescue Aleper, Illukol was tragically carried away by the waters and drowned. The police have confirmed Aleper is in their custody and will be handed over to her parents.
We took Aleper into our custody, and we are waiting to hand her over to her parents,” said Mike Longole, the Karamoja Police spokesperson.
In another incident in Katanga, 2-year-old Evaline Subuwa was inside her house when floodwaters swept through. Despite being retrieved by residents and rushed to Moroto Regional Hospital, she sadly died shortly after arrival.
The police have issued warnings to the community about the dangers of crossing seasonal rivers during the rainy season and constructing homes near riverbanks.
However, residents have expressed frustration, blaming the government for failing to install essential infrastructure such as bridges within Moroto Municipality.
“The road from Kakoliye traversing the river is now the most dangerous, and yet the municipality is failing to install the bridge on it,” Joan Adome said.
Nilepost.co.ug