Agago | The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has expressed regret over an incident in which a civilian was fatally shot during a routine night patrol in the Agago district.
The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, casting a shadow over the area’s Women’s Day celebrations.
Speaking to our Reporter, Captain Edrin Mawanda, the 5th Division Public Information Officer, confirmed the incident and provided details of what transpired between the civilian and the UPDF soldiers.
According to Captain Mawanda, at around 2:30 a.m., soldiers from the 79th Battalion came across a group of civilians drinking in a bar and playing cards in violation of a bylaw imposed by local authorities.
The patrol team encountered resistance from the group, resulting in a confrontation.
“Unfortunately, one civilian grabbed a soldier, which resulted in a shooting that fatally wounded Okiyo Richard, a resident of Lukwong village, Lomoi parish, Omia Pachwac sub-county,” Captain Mawanda explained.
The UPDF has strongly condemned any attempt to seize a soldier’s firearm, particularly while on duty. “Officers must be respected, and such actions can lead to tragic consequences,” Captain Mawanda emphasized.
The body of the deceased was transported to Agago Health Center IV for a postmortem examination, as confirmed by Captain Mawanda.
In response to the incident, the 5th Division Commander, Major General Keith Katungi, has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter. He has promised to provide clear and transparent information once the investigation is complete.
The UPDF is also involving the police, the District Internal Security Officer (DISO), and other district authorities, who have visited the scene to gather more information.
Meanwhile, the alleged gang leader of the group, Ongwech Paul, a resident of Loli village, along with his accomplices, fled the scene and remains at large. Security forces are actively pursuing them to ensure justice and accountability.
The UPDF has reiterated its commitment to upholding peace and security in the region and conducting its operations within the framework of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
The incident has raised concerns among local residents, but the UPDF has assured the public that it will take all necessary precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This publication has exclusively identified the shooter as Private Ebamu Samuel, No. 271198.
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