Lira man arrested for faking a military profile

Police at Lira City Central Division have launched an investigation into Omara Bruno, 25. This civilian was arrested on August 4, 2025, while dressed in full Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) combat attire.

The incident occurred around 11:00 pm along Juba Road in Jinja Camp Cell, Barogole Ward, Lira City West Division.

According to police reports, Omara Bruno, who works as a block maker at some stores in Jinja Camp Cell, claimed during interrogation that he had received the uniform from a friend identified as Otim Thomas.

Omara stated that Otim had asked him to escort him to Angwetangwet to pick up his girlfriend.

He explained during interrogation that when he told Otim all his clothes were dirty and he couldn’t accompany him, Otim insisted they go to his house, where he provided him with a UPDF trouser and shirt.

Although Omara initially resisted wearing the uniform, Otim convinced him, he told police. Otim also reportedly wore another military uniform and a jacket before they set off.

The two then proceeded along Juba Road and boarded a boda boda heading to Angwetangwet. However, a vehicle suddenly intercepted them at high speed.

Two armed men—one carrying an AK-47—emerged, causing Otim to flee immediately.

The bodaboda rider also sped off, leaving Omara behind. He was subsequently arrested and taken to Lira Army Barracks before being handed over to Lira City Central Division Police Station the following day.

SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, the North Kyoga Regional Police PRO stated that preliminary intelligence suggests Otim’s parents might be UPDF soldiers attached to Bombo Barracks, though this has yet to be verified.

“We suspect this may not be the first time these individuals have worn military uniforms to terrorize the community, as we have recorded several cases of alleged robberies involving such disguises,” Okema said.

Police are actively searching for Otim Thomas for arrest and prosecution. Authorities are also working to verify whether his alleged parents are indeed serving UPDF officers.