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Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the UPDF extended financial support to families affected by a tragic shooting incident in Agago District, where a UPDF soldier took the lives of three people and injured others. The UPDF expressed regret, pledged justice, and reaffirmed commitment to accountability and community support.

Deputy CDF, Lt Gen. Sam Okiding, delivering the financial assistance

In a demonstration of solidarity and accountability, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has provided financial support to the families affected by a tragic shooting incident in Paimol sub-county, Agago district.

On October 20, 2024, a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier from the Special Forces Command unit, Private Bonny Ameny, fatally shot three individuals and injured three others, leaving the community in deep mourning.

In a statement released on the evening of Monday, November 18, 2024, Capt. Edrin Mawanda, spokesperson for the UPDF’s 5th Division, outlined that Deputy CDF, Lt Gen. Sam Okiding, delivered the financial assistance, with each bereaved family receiving UGX 5 million, while the injured were given UGX 3 million.

“We are deeply sorry for what happened,” Okiding stated during the handover.

Expressing regret on behalf of the UPDF, Lt Gen. Okiding conveyed the army’s commitment to supporting the affected families and reaffirmed the UPDF’s dedication to accountability and rebuilding community trust.

Community Reassurance and Support

Lt Gen. Okiding further urged parents in the region to prioritize education as a critical tool for enhancing competitiveness in Uganda. He encouraged residents to participate in government initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model, to reduce poverty and build economic resilience.

“With agricultural initiatives, communities can unlock the region’s potential and tackle hunger,” he stated.

Brig. Gen. Keith Katungi, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division, praised local leaders and residents for their cooperation with the UPDF in maintaining peace, especially in combating cattle rustling. He noted, however, that deeper structural challenges like poverty and hunger must be addressed to ensure lasting stability.

Courtesy photo

Community Commends Exceptional Support

Agago District Chairperson Leonard Opio expressed gratitude for the UPDF’s swift response and accountability measures.

“From covering burial expenses to fulfilling their financial commitment and offering a public apology, this is a rare and commendable gesture,” he said.

The victims of the incident, who have since been laid to rest, were identified as Santino Akidi (47), Sunday Apiyo (21), and Florence Ajal (16). Financial assistance was also provided to the injured to support their recovery and cover medical expenses.

Pursuit of Justice for the Victims

Private Ameny, the soldier involved in the incident, is scheduled to face trial before the Division Court Martial on November 19, 2024, in Paimol village. The UPDF has assured the public of a thorough and transparent judicial process to ensure justice.

A Commitment to Move Forward

This incident has prompted discussions on enhancing welfare and mental health support for soldiers deployed in rural areas, as well as fostering stronger relations between the community and the army. The UPDF’s financial and emotional support has been welcomed as a step in the right direction, symbolizing a commitment to accountability and healing.

For a community still grappling with grief, the UPDF leadership’s gesture has brought comfort, and many hope it will pave the way for stronger bonds between the army and civilians in the region.