The UPDF has confirmed the fatal shooting of two civilians in Namukora Sub-County, Kitgum District, on the night of August 28, 2025.
The incident occurred at Kitleng Detach at around 11:19 pm, when soldiers on duty at a community-protected kraal opened fire on two men they suspected to be cattle thieves.
The soldiers believed the victims were attempting to drive away two cultivating bulls from the nearby Lapenyi farmland area.
It later emerged, however, that the men were not cattle thieves.
According to community leaders, the victims were intoxicated, had lost their way, and were moving during curfew hours.
The deceased have been identified as Mr. Obutu Joseph, 50, a resident of Mangeyi Village, Panyum Melong Parish, Omia Nyima Sub-County, and Mr. Opira Richard, 42, of Amoyo Kol Village, Pella Parish, Omia Nyima Sub-County, Kitgum District.
Maj Gen Keith Katungi, Commander of the 5 Infantry Division, has since reached out to the bereaved families to coordinate burial arrangements and convey condolences on behalf of the UPDF.
“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 army said in a statement.
The UPDF further appealed to communities to support security operations by respecting local bylaws and avoiding movements that could expose them to unnecessary risk, especially during curfew hours.
