Security agencies in Lamwo district have intensified efforts to dismantle suspected cross-border firearms trafficking networks amid growing concerns over gun-related violence along the Uganda–South Sudan border.
The renewed security operations follow the arrest of a 54-year-old man in Agoro sub-county, an incident authorities say forms part of broader investigations into the movement of illegal firearms and ammunition across the border.
According to a police flash report issued by Lamwo Police Station, the suspect, identified as Acire Tom Kayira, a resident of Tegot Kwera South village in Pobar parish, Agoro sub-county, was arrested to assist investigators in establishing his alleged role in the illegal trafficking of firearms and ammunition.
Police say the investigation is being conducted jointly by several security agencies and is focused on identifying the source of the suspected weapons, mapping the trafficking routes used by criminal networks, recovering illegally held firearms, and apprehending other individuals believed to be involved.
Authorities have emphasised that the suspect remains under investigation and that due process will be followed as inquiries continue.
The operation comes at a time when security officials are increasingly concerned about the availability of illegal firearms in border communities, where isolated incidents of armed violence, livestock theft, and cross-border criminal activity have continued to pose security challenges.
Speaking during a community engagement meeting in Agoro sub-county, Lamwo district chairperson Oyet Sisto Ocen praised the coordinated efforts of security agencies while urging residents to become active partners in maintaining peace.
He said illegal firearms continue to undermine development by creating fear among communities, discouraging investment, and exposing residents to violent crime.
According to Oyet, security assessments indicate that several recent gun-related incidents have been concentrated within the Palabek–Agoro border corridor, making the area a priority for intensified security surveillance.
He noted that communities living near the international border remain particularly vulnerable because of the porous nature of the frontier, which allows criminals to exploit unofficial crossing points.
“The fight against illegal firearms cannot be won by security agencies alone,” Oyet said. “Communities must be willing to report suspicious individuals and activities because public cooperation remains one of the strongest tools in preventing crime.”
The district chairperson cautioned residents against harboring suspects or withholding information that could help investigators recover illegal weapons.
Agoro sub-county LC III chairperson Onyango Charles echoed the call, urging residents not to shield people involved in cross-border criminal activities.
He said local leaders have continued working closely with police and other security agencies to promote community vigilance and improve information sharing.
According to Onyango, community policing initiatives have become increasingly important in identifying suspicious movements and preventing criminals from using villages as transit points for illegal activities.
Meanwhile, Lamwo Resident District Commissioner Williams Komakech reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening security along the Uganda–South Sudan border.
He said intelligence gathering, surveillance patrols, and collaboration between various security agencies have been reinforced to detect and disrupt illegal firearms trafficking before weapons reach communities.
Komakech appealed to residents to volunteer credible information that could assist security agencies in recovering illegal firearms and arresting additional suspects.
He emphasised that maintaining security requires collective responsibility involving government agencies, local leaders, and ordinary citizens.
Security experts have long identified border districts such as Lamwo as strategic areas requiring continuous surveillance because of their proximity to South Sudan, where years of conflict have contributed to the circulation of small arms within the region.
Although cross-border trade remains an important source of livelihood for many families, authorities say criminal groups sometimes exploit the same transport routes to traffic firearms, ammunition, and other prohibited items.
Officials maintain that strengthening intelligence-led operations, enhancing cooperation with neighbouring authorities, and encouraging community participation remain key strategies in reducing cross-border crime.
Police say investigations into the Agoro case are ongoing and that additional information will be released once inquiries are complete.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and instead support lawful investigations by sharing credible information with security agencies.
As Lamwo continues balancing legitimate cross-border movement with enhanced security measures, district leaders say sustained public vigilance and cooperation will remain essential in protecting lives, preserving peace, and preventing illegal firearms from finding their way into local communities.
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