A community meeting in Busalamu Town Council ended in tragedy after a three-year-old boy drowned in a nearby water collection pit on Monday afternoon.

The deceased, identified as Sali Hinda Jaiden, was a resident of Lukunhu A Cell in Busalamu Town Council, Luuka District. Eye witnesses said the child had been left playing nearby as his parents participated in the meeting.

According to the preliminary police reports, as the session went on, light rain began to fall, forcing participants to seek shelter indoors.

However, when the weather cleared and the meeting ended, Jaiden was nowhere to be found which prompted a quick search.

The boy’s lifeless body was discovered submerged in a nearby water pit, believed to have been dug for collecting rainwater in a coffee plantation.

The Busoga North Regional Police Spokesperson, SSP Samson Lubega confirmed the incident. He noted that the Police has opened investigations to establish the full circumstances under which the child drowned.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and urge parents to remain vigilant, especially around water sources,” SSP Lubega said.

He also cautioned communities against leaving open pits and trenches exposed, emphasizing that such hazards continue to claim the lives of innocent children across rural areas.

Residents described the late Jaiden as a cheerful and playful child who was often seen running around the village compound.

Local leaders have since called for urgent measures to fence off open water pits and trenches, particularly in homes and plantations where children often play unattended.

The deceased’s body was later handed over to relatives for burial as police investigations continue.