UPDF apologises after soldiers kill two civilians in Kitgum

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KITGUM – The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has issued an apology after two civilians were fatally shot by soldiers guarding a protected kraal in Kitgum District, in what the army has described as a tragic case of mistaken identity.

The incident occurred at Kitleng Detach in Namukora Sub-County on the night of 28 August 2025 at about 11:19 pm.

According to Captain Edrin Mawanda, the Public Information Officer of the 5th Infantry Division, the victims were mistaken for cattle thieves during night patrols and were killed instantly.

The deceased were identified as Joseph Obutu, 50, a resident of Mangeyi Village, Panyum Melong Parish, and Richard Opira, 42, of Amoyo Kol Village, Pella Parish, both in Omia Nyima Sub-County.

Mistaken for raiders

Capt Mawanda explained that two soldiers on duty had been securing livestock in a community-protected kraal when they spotted the men near the main entry point. Believing they were Karimojong warriors attempting to raid livestock, the soldiers opened fire.

The soldiers suspected the pair of trying to drive away two bulls believed to have strayed from Lapenyi farmland. However, community leaders later confirmed that the men, who had been drinking, had lost their way and mistakenly entered the protected kraal area during curfew hours.

“This was a tragic error. The UPDF regrets the accidental killing of the two civilians and conveys heartfelt condolences to the families,” Capt Mawanda said in a statement.

On Friday, the Commander of the 5th Infantry Division, Maj Gen Keith Katungi, reached out to the bereaved families to coordinate burial arrangements and offer the army’s support.

“The UPDF stands with the affected families in this difficult moment,” Capt Mawanda added, stressing that the force remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all Ugandans.

A delicate balance

The shooting highlights the delicate balance the army faces in northern Uganda, where soldiers are deployed in rural communities to protect livestock from frequent raids. Kitgum and neighbouring districts have long struggled with cross-border incursions by armed Karimojong cattle rustlers, who often steal animals and terrorise communities.

To counter the raids, the government has over the years introduced community-protected kraals—secure enclosures where livestock is kept under 24-hour military guard. These kraals are intended to deter raiders and protect the livelihoods of farmers who depend on cattle for survival.

However, the latest incident exposes the risks that come with militarising civilian areas, particularly when residents unknowingly breach restricted zones at night.

Curfew restrictions

Authorities have also reminded the public of the importance of adhering to local bylaws, especially those restricting movement after dark in areas under military protection. Curfew hours are enforced to reduce the risk of raids and to allow soldiers to easily identify potential threats.

“The UPDF appeals to the community to cooperate with security personnel by respecting curfew hours and avoiding entry into restricted areas,” Capt Mawanda emphasised.

Continued commitment

While apologising for the tragedy, the UPDF reiterated its mission of defending citizens against external and internal threats. Officials maintained that the soldiers involved were carrying out their duties under difficult conditions, with the intention of safeguarding livestock from theft.

“The Force reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and property. We are working to ensure that such incidents do not occur again,” the statement read.