By Aaron Okotel
MBALE CITY
There was relief at North Road Primary School in Mbale City after a Primary Four pupil who had gone missing last week was found safe and reunited with her family.
The pupil, identified as Newombesa Afra, reportedly disappeared on Thursday after being sent home from school along with other learners. However, she did not reach her home, sparking panic among her parents and school authorities.
Her disappearance prompted a joint search effort by the school, parents, and police. Authorities from the Elgon region police command immediately launched a manhunt and began tracing her whereabouts.
According to Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, SP Rogers Taitika, the girl resurfaced on Monday, 23rd March, 2026 when she returned to the school.
“She informed us that she had gone with her fellow pupil, identified as Akello Racheal, to her home,” Taitika said adding that Police have since handed over the child to her parents.
Taitika used the incident to call on the public to be more vigilant and responsible when handling such situations, urging communities to promptly report missing children.
“There is no way a responsible parent can stay with a pupil for all those days without informing authorities,” he emphasized.
The incident has raised concern among parents and school administrators, highlighting the need for closer supervision of children and stronger communication between families, schools, and law enforcement.
