Dilemma; 21-year-old mother arrested over death of her 3 days baby

In a remote village of Obanya, within the Lukwo Parish of Arapwoyo Sub-county in Omoro District, a community has been left in shock and sorrow following a distressing incident involving a 21-year-old woman Apio Collin and the loss of her 3 days baby.

The events began on September 25, 2023, when Apio, gave birth in the wilderness. Her actions were driven by a fear instilled by her own brother, Opiyo Geoffrey, who had previously issued a stern warning against Apio giving birth within their family home.

In the days that followed, Apio’s maternal instincts guided her as she cared for her newborn baby in the bush where she had hidden it. But what should have been a time of joy and bonding soon took a heart-wrenching turn.

On September 27, 2023, at the break of dawn around 05:00 hrs, Apio returned to check on her infant, only to confront a nightmare beyond imagination. Her baby had fallen victim to a horde of red ants, and worms had begun to infest its defenceless body. Fortunately, the infant was still alive.

Faced with an unspeakable dilemma, Apio dumped the suffering baby in her uncle’s pit latrine.

An hour later, Apio’s uncle, OJok Christopher discovered the child’s body in the latrine. Alongside other community members, they retrieved the lifeless body of the newborn and reported the matter to the police.

Homicide detectives from Omoro Centra Police Station arrested Apio and they are currently holding her on charges of murder.

ASP Ongom David Mudong, the Public Relations Officer for ASWA West Region, has called on the community to seek guidance, counselling, and support when facing challenges. He urges people to turn to friends, relatives, neighbours, and those willing to help, rather than resorting to actions that may lead to tragic and criminal outcomes.