Police in Mityana District are investigating the drowning of Mutagwanya Angello Darius, a four-year-old pupil at Cosna Primary School and resident of Butega Village, Kabuwambo Ward in Ttamu Division, Mityana Municipality.
According to preliminary police reports, the incident occurred on October 20, 2025, around 5:00 p.m. Heavy rain had flooded a makeshift wooden bridge that Darius attempted to cross while returning home from school.
The child was swept off by the strong current and fell into a nearby trench. His body was carried approximately 50 meters downstream and was later discovered lifeless by his parents after the rain subsided.
“It’s a heartbreaking incident. We received information about the drowning, and our officers immediately responded,” said SP Racheal Kawala, Wamala Region Police spokesperson.
“A postmortem examination has been conducted, and the body has been handed over to the family for burial.”
SP Kawala added that investigations are ongoing but emphasized the importance of vigilance during the rainy season.
“We urge the public to take precautionary measures during heavy rains and avoid unnecessary movement, especially for children. Schools must also ensure the safety of pupils during extreme weather conditions to prevent such tragedies.”
The tragedy has left residents of Butega Village in shock, with community members calling for stronger safety measures, including the construction of proper bridges and drainage systems to protect school-going children.
“This could have been avoided if we had a stronger bridge,” said one resident, noting that many children use the same route daily.
With rains continuing across much of the country, authorities have reiterated their appeal for heightened community awareness and better infrastructure to prevent similar accidents.