In a continued effort to bolster peace and security in the Karamoja sub-region, joint security forces comprising the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have recovered two illegal firearms in separate operations carried out in Karenga District.
According to security officials, the first firearm an SMG rifle with three live rounds of ammunition was recovered on May 21, 2025, from Lomeritum Lobwol Simon Peter, a 30-year-old resident of Lokorio Village.
The suspect was arrested during a targeted operation and later led the security team to his residence, where the weapon was hidden.
In a separate development, a second SMG rifle was surrendered to the security forces by the wife of Lokuda Gabriel, a 70-year-old resident of Komem Village.
Authorities confirmed that Lokuda had earlier been apprehended on May 4, 2025, and remains in custody as investigations continue.
Officials commended the community for their growing cooperation with security agencies, noting that such collaboration is crucial in efforts to rid the region of illegal arms and ensure lasting peace.
“Our security agencies remain committed to maintaining peace and security in the region and urge the community to continue cooperating with them,” read a joint statement from ASTU and UPDF leadership in the area.
The recovery of these firearms marks a significant step in the Karamoja region’s ongoing disarmament and crime prevention campaign. Security forces continue to call on residents to report any suspicious activity and to voluntarily surrender illegal weapons.