Adjumani — A prison warder has died, and two others were hospitalised after a colleague allegedly gave them a herbal charm in an attempt to recover a stolen motorcycle, police in Adjumani District have reported.
According to the Uganda Police, the incident occurred on March 12, 2026, after prison warder Daniel Ogwok discovered that his motorcycle had been stolen from the Openzinzi Government Prison barracks by unknown suspects.
Police say Ogwok sought out a traditional healer — identified only as Emmanuel — who provided a charm or herbal concoction that was then administered to him and two fellow warders, in the belief it would reveal or help recover the stolen motorcycle.
Adverse Effects and Death
The police spokesperson for the North West Nile region, SP Collins Asea, told reporters that after consuming the herbal medicine, three warders began experiencing severe adverse reactions and were taken to the prison clinic for treatment.
Two warders — Akatukwasa and Felix Twinomugisa — have since recovered and remain under medical care.
The third warder, Mathaeus Wegumba (30), died from complications following the treatment at the prison health facility.
Wegumba’s body was transported to the Adjumani General Hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem examination.
Investigation Underway
Police said both Ogwok and the traditional healer fled the scene after the incident and efforts are underway to locate them as part of the ongoing investigation.
In a statement, SP Asea urged members of the public to avoid resorting to traditional rituals or herbal solutions when dealing with criminal matters such as theft, and instead report such incidents directly to law enforcement authorities to ensure they are handled legally and safely.
The unusual case highlights the risks posed when unverified traditional practices are used in serious security situations, especially within institutions entrusted with public safety and law enforcement.
