A joint security operation involving the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police Force and the Internal Security Organisation (ISO) has led to the arrest of eight suspected members of an armed criminal network and the recovery of two sub-machine guns and 30 rounds of ammunition in the West Acholi sub-region.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted over three weeks, covered Gulu City and the districts of Nwoya, Omoro and Gulu, and targeted what authorities described as a surge in armed criminal activity that had disrupted security and livelihoods in the region.
According to the Public Information Officer of the 4th Infantry Division, Capt. David K. Kamya, the coordinated operation was a response to escalating violent crime and relied heavily on intelligence and community information.
“The operation, conducted over a period of three weeks, covered Gulu City and the districts of Nwoya, Omoro and Gulu in response to escalating armed criminal activities that have adversely affected security and local communities in the region,” Capt. Kamya said.
Those arrested were identified as Ronald Bob Komakech, Solomon Ojok, Yassin Okot, Vincent Opiru, Raymond Komakech, Stephen Ayella, Francis Okello Owiro and another suspect, all residents of Nwoya District.
Security officials say the suspects are under investigation over allegations including murder, attempted murder by shooting, aggravated robbery, theft of firearms from security personnel and institutions, unlawful possession of military and police equipment, and wildlife-related crimes.
During the same operation, one suspect, Daniel Komakech, died after what authorities described as a confrontation during an arrest attempt.
“During an operation conducted on the night of 18–19 June 2026 to apprehend a suspect identified as Daniel Komakech, he resisted arrest and attempted to disarm security personnel. This prompted the use of reasonable force to subdue him,” Capt. Kamya said.
“He sustained injuries and was admitted to the 4 Infantry Division Military Hospital, where he later passed away on the morning of 19 June 2026,” he added.
Investigators have linked the group to several high-profile violent crimes across northern Uganda, including the May 5 killing of Obedi Ronald, a private security guard attached to Samurai Security Group, and businessman Kenneth Komakech at LTNG Petrol Station in Gulu City.
The suspects are also alleged to have been involved in the May 15 murder of Wilfred Ojok at Awach Trading Centre, the June 3 killing of mobile money agent Raymond Onen at Ongako Trading Centre, and the attempted murder of Assistant Inspector of Police Beatrice Awori during the robbery of a firearm from Lalogi Police Station in Omoro District.
Other cases under investigation include the attempted murder of Okech Bafara and motorcycle robbery in Gulu City, as well as robberies involving Shs5 million from Francis Omona in Kitgum District and Shs2.9 million from Sunday Akot in Nwoya District.
Security officials also linked the group to suspected poaching activities in Murchison Falls National Park, where wildlife trophies were reportedly recovered.
Capt. Kamya said the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue and further arrests are expected.
“The suspects remain in custody for further investigations and subsequent legal action. Security agencies continue to pursue additional suspects believed to be connected to the criminal network,” he said.
He commended members of the public for providing information that supported the operation and urged continued vigilance as efforts to dismantle armed criminal networks continue in the region.