KAMPALA: Nine workers at an Indian oil farm in Apac district have drowned as they escaped from an exploitative boss and went searching for greener pastures.
A police statement said the group drowned on Tuesday morning (4am) as they tried to cross from Apac to Masindi to try and get better jobs.
“The incident was reported by Okule Gabriel, a 19-year-old supervisor, working at the Indian palm oil farm in Maruzi ranch, Apac District,” police said.
The deceased have been identified as Lotyang Peter, 19, Lemukol Simon, 18, Lotham Simon, 30, Lomuria John, 15, Kamur Nomha, 21, Ngole Simon, 21, Lonta Joseph, 19, Lucumwa Simon, 35, and Lokuwam Joseph, 19.
“According to reports, on the night of July 9th, 2023, thirteen workers from the Maruzi palm oil project farm embarked on a journey to seek employment in Masindi District, as they had not been paid by the management of the Indian farm,” police said.
“Upon reaching Kungu landing site, they discovered that the ferry was not operational. Consequently, they decided to board a small canoe to cross to the Masindi port landing site.”
“Tragically, the canoe capsized, resulting in the drowning of all thirteen individuals, with only four survivors,” police said.
The Police “strongly urged workers to approach the labor officers stationed in all District Local Government offices across the country in case of any challenges at their workplaces, before making any drastic decisions”.