The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has expressed their deep regret over an incident that led to the tragic shooting of a civilian in Agago District during a routine night patrol.
Around 2:30 am, soldiers from the 79 Battalion came across a group of civilians who were drinking and playing cards in a bar, violating the curfew set by local authorities.
In a statement from Capt. Edrin Mawanda, the Public Information Officer for the 5th Division, it was reported that the patrol encountered resistance.
During the confrontation, a civilian attempted to seize a soldier’s weapon, which resulted in the fatal shooting of Okiyo Richard, a resident of Lukwong Village in Lomoi Parish, Omia Pachwac Sub-county.
Mawanda emphasized that the UPDF strongly condemns any efforts to take a soldier’s firearm while they are on duty.
The deceased’s body has been taken to Agago Health Center for a postmortem examination.
In response to the incident, Major General Keith Katungi, the Division Commander, has ordered a thorough investigation.
Local police, the District Internal Security Officer, and other district officials have visited the site.
Mawanda also mentioned that the suspected leader of the group, Paul Ongwech from Loli Village, along with his accomplices, managed to escape and are currently being pursued by security forces to ensure justice is served.
He reiterated the UPDF’s commitment to maintaining peace and security while adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in their operations.
