The Special Forces Command has explained circumstances under which one of their own died while in detention in Kasenyi.
Pte Martin Obol’s relatives report to the media that their son died under unclear circumstances after allegedly being tortured.
In a statement on Thursday, SFC spokesperson, Maj Jimmy Omara explained that Obol died at Kasenyi Health Centre III, Kasenyi Training School while he was under detention.
“Upon his death, the body was conveyed to Mulago National Referral Hospital from where a post mortem (examination) was undertaken by a team of pathology experts. This is a routine procedure for all soldiers who suffer sudden death from natural causes and accidents,” Maj Omara said.
He said Obol’s family was informed of his death to allow them proceed with funeral arrangements.
The SFC spokesperson said the final postmortem report didn’t come fast, as is always the case since it requires further specialized tests from the government analytical laboratory but noted it has now available.
“It details out all the technical aspects pertaining to the cause of death. However, the report remains confidential except to the members of the family as required by law.”
Whereas Obol’s family said he had been once presented before the military court, the SFC spokesperson admitted that he appeared on January, 22, 2025 on charges of drunkenness, threatening violence (attempted murder) and disorderliness.
“He pleaded not guilty to the counts and the matter was adjourned to February 5, 2025 for prosecution hearing. However, around January 31, 2025, under case of Hon. Kabaziguruka, the Supreme Court of Uganda disbanded and halted all trials before military courts. Thus, there was no way we could convene court without jurisdiction to try any person,” Maj Omara said.
He added that in case any UPDF personnel dies in circumstances such as these, a board of inquiry is constituted to establish the facts surrounding his death.
“ Equally, SFC constituted a board of inquiry headed by Col. Moses Nabaasa to investigate this matter and allegations relating to torture of the deceased by his colleagues are under consideration. We are confident the board of inquiry will provide facts to clarify this.”
