Statement on Civilian Fatality in Agago District

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) regret to report an incident that resulted in the fatal shooting of a civilian in Agago District during a routine night patrol.

 

At approximately 2:30 am, soldiers from the 79 Battalion encountered a group of civilians drinking in a bar and playing cards beyond the curfew time imposed by local authorities.

 

The patrol force faced resistance, and one civilian grabbed a soldier, resulting in a shooting that fatally wounded and killed Okiyo Richard, a resident of Lukwong Village, Lomoi Parish, Omia Pachwac Sub-county.

 

The UPDF condemns any attempt to seize a soldier’s firearm, especially when they are on duty.

 

The body of the deceased was transported to Agago Health Center for a postmortem examination.

 

The Division Commander, Major General Keith Katungi, has sanctioned deeper investigations into the incident.

 

The police, DISO, and other district authorities visited the scene.

 

The alleged gang leader of the group, Ongwech Paul, a resident of Loli Village, along with his accomplices, fled the scene and remains at large, while security forces are actively pursuing them to ensure justice and accountability.

 

The UPDF remains committed to upholding peace and security and conducting its operations within Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

 

Capt Edrin Mawanda
5 Division Public Information Officer