Police in Kassanda District have launched a manhunt for five teachers from Praise Nursery and Primary School in Kalagala Village, Kijuna Sub-county, who are accused of severely beating an 11-year-old pupil.
The incident reportedly occurred on November 5, when the teachers allegedly assaulted Deus Ssempiira, a Primary Four pupil, leaving him with serious injuries.
According to preliminary investigations, the ordeal began after the boy failed to complete an assignment because he did not have a book.
The class teacher, identified as Franko, allegedly became enraged, dragged the boy out of class, and, with four colleagues waiting outside, beat him repeatedly with sticks and canes.
After the assault, the pupil fled home. His grandmother later discovered deep bruises and swelling on his buttocks.
“He was crying softly and told me that the teachers had beaten him. When I checked, I found wounds all over his body,” she said, before reporting the matter to the village vice-chairperson.
The case was subsequently taken up by the Kasanda District Police Commander, who tasked the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) with further inquiries.
According to Lameck Kigozi, police spokesperson for Wamala region, all five teachers are on the run, and a team has been deployed to track them down.
“The hunt is on. We are determined to arrest these suspects and bring them to justice. No teacher has the right to inflict such violence on a child,” SSP Kigozi said.
Police have also cautioned teachers across the district against excessive corporal punishment, emphasizing that discipline must be reasonable and non-abusive.
“Punishment is not outlawed, but it must be proportionate. Teachers are encouraged to guide and correct pupils without resorting to brutality,” Kigozi added.
The victim is currently recovering at home under the care of his grandmother while investigations continue.
