Agago District authorities have launched a joint investigation following a tragic double homicide and suicide on November 13, after a local farmer reportedly used a stolen military firearm to kill his wife and later take his own life.
The incident involved 28-year-old John Adwel, a resident of Tekato Village in Lira-Kato Sub-County, who allegedly stole a gun from a nearby Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) detachment.
He fatally shot his wife, Florence Akello, 25, before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle and later turning the firearm on himself at his home.
Two teenage girls — Mirriam Amolo, 16, and Esther Lawino, 15 — sisters of the deceased, sustained gunshot wounds and were admitted to Dr Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital Kalongo for treatment.
Local officials say the attack followed a domestic dispute that escalated after Adwel returned home from a three-month absence.
“He found his wife grazing a cow, followed her with a stick, and during the altercation struck the baby tied on her back. Later, he used a gun to kill his wife and then himself,” said Alexander Okidi, Lira-Kato Sub-County District Councilor V.
The couple had two children and reportedly separated earlier due to ongoing marital conflicts.
Police confirmed that Adwel had no formal ties to the UPDF. Investigators recovered the motorcycle used in the escape — registration number UFS 478 R — and two spent cartridges at the scene.
UPDF authorities revealed that Private Joshua Kakuru, 28, the soldier to whom the firearm had been officially issued, has been arrested. In total, four individuals — two civilians and two soldiers — are in custody to assist with the investigation.
“As part of ongoing investigations, two civilians and two soldiers have been arrested. The UPDF and Uganda Police Force assure the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway,” said Capt. Edrin Mawanda, Public Information Officer for the UPDF 5th Division Infantry.
The incident is part of a concerning pattern in East Acholi, where civilians have been killed in cases involving military-issued firearms.
Since early 2024, seven such deaths have been reported, including incidents during cattle-rustling operations, curfew enforcement, and personal disputes.
Authorities stressed the need for civilians to avoid confrontations with armed personnel and pledged to determine how Adwel accessed the weapon.
Investigators will focus on potential breaches in security or protocol that enabled the tragedy. The Nile Post will continue to follow developments as the investigation progresses.
