John Bosco Akore
Police in Kotido are investigating the death of Anthony Lodweny Lokoumoru, the LCI Chairperson of Nawapet village in Rikitae parish, Panyangara Sub-county, on suspicion of poisoning.
Lodweny passed away on Friday, August 21, 2026, at around 8:00 p.m. after having supper with his wife, Madelena Atoo, and their children.
Suspecting that his death may not have been from natural causes, family notified the LCIII Chairperson who responded immediately and found the deceased lying dead in front of his door.
A case of sudden death was then reported at Kotido Central Police Station under Vide SD Ref:20/22/08/2026.
Madelena Atoo a wife to the deceased said after dinner, the late asked for a torch and went inside the house to rest, not knowing it would be the last time they spoke.
She recounted the tragic event that unfolded when the deceased suddenly felt an intense urge to vomit.
“Despite his efforts, he was unable to expel anything due to alleged blocked throat. Moments later, he collapsed right in front of the door and subsequently dead” Atoo recounted.
Before his death, the deceased according to Atoo went to Rikitae trading centre in the morning, but returned at around 5:00 p.m, looking distressed and complaining of a severe headache.
“My husband told me that he began feeling unwell after snapping tobacco, locally known as “Etaba,” from a person whose name has been withheld for security reasons”, she added.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Levis Mugusage, the acting Kotido District Police Commander said that inquiries are ongoing.
“The detectives are examining whether Lodweny’s death resulted from natural causes or possible foul play”,Mugusage observed.
Mugusage added that police have already recorded statements from family members and the neighbours, which will guide the next phase of the investigation.
Since the news of his death broke, tributes have poured in from family, friends, and community leaders, all remembering Lodweny as a simple, peace-loving man.
His eldest daughter, Maria Angella, described her father as a loving and caring person, noting that he disciplined his children with words rather than physical punishment.
His stepson, Ambrose Okello, expressed the family’s deep loss, highlighting that Lodweny was the sole breadwinner.
Residents and leaders, including Peter Teko, the councilor for Rikitae East Parish, and resident Umo Apukan, praised Lodweny for his generosity and dedication to development.
They credited him with donating land to the government for the establishment of Kalosarich Primary School, Panyangara Seed School, and Rikitae Health Centre II.
According to them, the sudden passing of Anthony Lodweny Lokoumoru has left a notable void in the community, since he was respected not only as a leader but also as a pillar of peace and development.
