Joint security forces comprising the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have recovered two illegal firearms in Karenga District, following the arrest of two suspects in separate operations.
According to Mike Longole, the Mt. Moroto Regional Police spokesperson, one of the firearms, a sub-machine gun (SMG) with three live rounds, was recovered after the arrest of Lomeritum Lobwol Simon Peter, a 30-year-old resident of Lokorio Village.
“The suspect was arrested on May 21, 2025, and during interrogation, he led our team to his residence where the weapon was found,” Longole confirmed.
In another development, the wife of Lokuda Gabriel, a 70-year-old resident of Komem Village, handed over an SMG to security personnel. Gabriel had earlier been arrested on May 4 and is currently in custody.
“These recoveries are a result of intensified operations and growing cooperation from the community,” Longole said. “We commend members of the public who have chosen to support our efforts and call upon others to emulate them.”
He added that the joint forces remain committed to restoring lasting peace in the region, especially in areas affected by armed violence and cattle rustling.
“We continue to appeal to the community to report any suspicious individuals or illegal firearms in their areas,” Longole emphasized.
The recovery of the two weapons adds to ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms in Karamoja, a region historically plagued by insecurity linked to gun violence.
