Tension is high in Moroto District after a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier shot and killed a man who had earlier been arrested as a suspected cattle rustler, sparking anger and demands for accountability.
The deceased, Michael Iriama, was apprehended at the Loputuk Detachment, but residents were shocked to learn he was later fatally shot under circumstances they say should never have occurred.
Patrick Lokii, a resident of Loputuk who witnessed the arrest, said the community expected the suspect to be handed over to the police for trial.
“I saw him being picked up by soldiers. We thought he would be taken through the legal process. Hearing that he was killed has left us shocked,” Lokii said.
UPDF Public Information Officer Major Godfrey Tumwine Kashaka confirmed the incident, describing the shooting as regrettable and assuring the public of a full investigation.
“The guard on duty entered into a scuffle with the victim, and later this led to the discharge of live ammunition and death. The UPDF is committed to protecting lives and property of all Ugandans,” Maj. Kashaka said.
Security officials reported that Iriama had allegedly stolen cows from Napak District and driven them to Arengkejo Village, Loputuk Sub-county, where he was later tracked and arrested.
The shooting happened during a community harmonisation meeting that some of Iriama’s relatives were attending. According to security reports, Iriama asked to go to the latrine but instead attempted to escape. Soldiers fired warning shots, but he continued running, prompting the guard on duty to shoot him dead.
Police responded immediately, with a team led by D/CID ASP Mubarak Wamaungo, homicide detectives, SOCCO, and uniformed officers documenting the scene.
Karamoja Regional Police Spokesperson IP Mike Longole confirmed that the stolen animals were recovered and handed back to the rightful owner, Joseph Loduk.
Local leaders have condemned the incident, including the area councillor and NRM flag bearer for the Moroto District LC5 seat.
“I was shocked to learn of this incident, and I will work with UPDF and Police to ensure the perpetrator faces the law,” he said.
Iriama’s body has been taken to Moroto Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem as investigations continue.
Authorities say findings of the inquiry will guide the next course of action.
