UPDF Shoots Suspected Cattle Thieves In Kitgum

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) reports the shooting of two civilians in Kitgum District on the night of 28 August 2025, at around 11:19 pm.

The incident occurred at Kitleng Detach, Namukora Sub-County, where two soldiers deployed to safeguard a community-protected kraal shot two individuals near the main entry point.

The soldiers, who were on duty protecting livestock, suspected the victims to be cattle thieves attempting to drive away two cultivating bulls believed to have come from the Lapenyi farmland area. This suspicion later proved mistaken. Community leaders confirmed that the two civilians were intoxicated, had lost their way, and were moving during curfew hours.

The deceased have been identified as:

Mr. Obutu Joseph, 50, resident of Mangeyi Village, Panyum Melong Parish, Omia Nyima Sub-County, Kitgum District.

Mr. Opira Richard, 42, resident of Amoyo Kol Village, Pella Parish, Omia Nyima Sub-County, Kitgum District.

Maj Gen Keith Katungi, Commander of the 5 Infantry Division, is in close contact with the families of the deceased to support burial arrangements and conveys his condolences, in conformity with the UPDF ideology.

While the soldiers acted on a perceived threat, the UPDF extends its sympathy to the families of the bereaved and reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Ugandans.

The UPDF appeals to the community to support security efforts by adhering to local bylaws and avoiding situations that may put them at risk.