UPDF intercepts Lira resident smuggling gun into South Sudan

Security forces in Lamwo district have intercepted a suspected arms smuggler attempting to sneak a firearm across the Uganda-South Sudan border.

The suspect, identified as Isaac Okunga, a resident of Akor village in Lira district, was arrested by personnel of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) while allegedly trying to smuggle a gun into South Sudan through Waligo border point.

The interception occurred on Friday in a routine security operation aimed at curbing illegal cross-border activity along the porous borderlines of northern Uganda.

Okunga was intercepted with a registered gun number SMG 25456 with five rounds of ammunition.

According to a security source, Okunga was apprehended after intelligence led the forces to monitor suspicious movements near the border corridor.

Upon search, a firearm was discovered in his possession, concealed in his luggage. Preliminary investigations suggest that Okunga had no official clearance or documentation for the weapon, raising concerns about the intended purpose of the smuggling attempt.

The UPDF has since taken the suspect into custody for further interrogation as investigations continue.

Authorities have also disclosed that Lakoko Oroma Gabriel was riding the motorcycle smuggling the firearm through Waligo border point.

Authorities are yet to disclose whether the suspect is linked to any rebel or criminal networks operating within the region.

The Lamwo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), William Komakech, confirmed the arrest and praised the vigilance of the UPDF, saying such actions are crucial in safeguarding Uganda’s territorial integrity and ensuring regional peace and stability.

“This arrest underscores the importance of continued border surveillance and collaboration among security agencies. We cannot allow weapons to fall into the wrong hands,” said Komakech.

He also called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities to local authorities, especially in border communities where smuggling and infiltration remain a concern.

The suspect is expected to be charged under the Firearms Act and face court proceedings in due course.

Lamwo district borders South Sudan and has in the past witnessed various incidents of illegal cross-border movements, including arms trafficking and cattle raids.

Security operations have since been intensified in the area to prevent further destabilization.

Lt. Col. Mubangizi Ipolito, the Brigade Commander of the 1 DUMISHA Brigade, warned that anyone found illegally possessing firearms will face the full force of the law. He commended the security forces for their vigilance and urged continued alertness to safeguard the border.

“We shall sustain these joint operations to disrupt criminal activities and ensure peace and stability along the Uganda-South Sudan border,” he emphasized.

Reporting by Vincent Kaguta and Denis Arao.