The Uganda Police Force has arrested a self-proclaimed pastor, Isaac Awio, and his accomplice, Erick Odyeny, following a violent incident in Lira City. The two were detained on charges of assault and malicious damage to a vehicle after a viral video surfaced showing them attacking a local musician and vandalizing his car.
Isaac Awio, known as Awio Scrap Dealer, along with his bouncer Odyeny, reportedly blocked the musician’s vehicle on Obote Avenue in Lira City, leading to a physical altercation. During the confrontation, the vehicle’s windshield was shattered, and the artist, whose car was damaged, was physically assaulted. The car, a white Toyota Max 2 Grand (registration number UAU 045Q), suffered significant damage.
North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson SP Jimmy Patrick Okema confirmed that police were quick to respond to the situation. “Initial attempts to arrest the suspects were unsuccessful as they tried to flee by jumping over a fence at Glass Lounge,” he explained. However, Awio and Odyeny were later apprehended and are currently in custody at Lira Central Police Station. The police are also seeking to arrest other accomplices seen in the video damaging the artist’s vehicle.
Awio, who gained attention after his disappearance and dramatic reappearance in the public eye, is a self-proclaimed pastor in Lira City. His reappearance included signing up to manage Lil Square, a local musician in northern Uganda.
SP Okema condemned the violent actions, calling them unacceptable. “The Uganda Police Force strongly condemns the actions of Awio and his accomplices. We will thoroughly investigate this incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable. We appeal to the public to remain calm and cooperate with police as we resolve this matter,” he said.
This incident adds to growing concerns over recent gang-related altercations among Ugandan musicians, leading to a police-imposed ban on musicians traveling with more than five people in their entourage. The investigation into this case is ongoing, with further developments expected.
