In a tragic incident at Tororo Cement quarters, Beatrice Ekiling, a 50-year-old security guard, was brutally murdered late Friday night.
The attackers, suspected to be motorcycle thieves, left her body in a pool of blood and stole several motorcycles stored within the premises.
What Happened?
Ekiling, an employee of Gideon Men Security Firm, was on duty when the assailants struck. Her firearm was found abandoned beside her, leading authorities to believe the attackers were solely focused on stealing motorcycles.
“We found motorcycles stolen, and the lady was killed, but her gun was left behind. We have introduced a sniffer dog to track the culprits, and we shall do all it takes to bring them to book,” said Sadiq Bategana Bakale, Tororo Resident District Commissioner (RDC).
A Life Cut Short
Ekiling, a widow and mother of seven from Mayembe village in Asinge sub-county, had worked in the security sector for over 14 years to support her family.
Two of her children are in university, while the youngest is in Senior Five.
Her neighbor, Paul Ochieng, recalled her dedication.
“I had warned her about working at night, but she explained how her salary wasn’t enough to cover her children’s education. She took on extra shifts to make ends meet,” Ochieng said.
Residents Blame Negligence
Residents of South Central village in Tororo Municipality have criticized Tororo Cement Factory management for failing to secure the premises.
They claim abandoned factory-owned houses have become hideouts for criminals.
“Most of these houses are empty. Workers face excessive salary deductions, forcing many to rent outside. This has made the area unsafe,” revealed an anonymous worker.
Police Launch Manhunt
Ekiling’s body has been taken for a postmortem as authorities intensify their search for the culprits. Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
