Soldiers jailed for neglecting duty during cattle raid in Agago

Two Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces soldiers have been sentenced to 18 months in prison for neglecting their duties.

Their actions resulted in the theft of cattle by Karamojong raiders.

Privates Onen Kenneth, 30, and Omoding John Okot, 45, of the 79th Battalion, 507 Brigade, pleaded guilty to leaving their post in Kabala village, Agago district, on the night of December 22.

They were assigned to guard a kraal but abandoned their post, only to return in the morning to discover that the cattle had been stolen.

The ruling was issued by the Field Unit Disciplinary Court in Parabong sub-county, presided over by Lt Col Nathan Mwesigwa.

Lt Col Richard Watmon, Commander of the 507 Brigade, issued a clear warning to soldiers, emphasizing the importance of vigilance, especially during the dry season when cattle raids are more common.

“Anyone who neglects their duty will be convicted,” Watmon said.

He also warned civilians who opposed the government’s efforts to build protected kraals that anyone who let their animals roam outside secured areas would be arrested and prosecuted.

Major Warren Muhangi, Commander of the 79th Battalion, urged local communities to cooperate with security forces by sharing information about suspicious activity.

He also encouraged them to upgrade the quality of their kraals in order to deter raiders.

Communities in the Acholi sub-region and neighboring districts have been advised to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces to protect their property, as cattle theft by Karamojong and South Sudanese raiders increases.