By Richard Onapatum
In a significant breakthrough, joint security forces in Karamoja Region have recovered two illegal guns in separate intelligence-led operations conducted in Moroto and Kaabong Districts. The successful recoveries are attributed to ongoing joint security efforts, commitment, and continuous disarmament operations that started in July 2021 to recover all illegal arms from Karacunas to pacify Karamoja and create development avenues in the sub-region.
The two SMG rifles, UG UPDF 566102587 with three rounds of live ammunition and A5460 with 11 rounds of live ammunition, were in illegal possession of notorious Karimojong cattle rustlers. Lobereei Nangiro Itwalakori, a known Karimojong cattle rustler from Lokitumo village, Lotisan Subcounty, Moroto District, had the first rifle forcefully recovered on December 18, 2024. The second rifle was recovered from Lopeyok Alokapel pus from Namorukook village, Lobongia Subcounty in Kaabong District on December 17, 2024.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to rid the region of illegal arms. The security forces have been conducting operations to disarm Karimojong warriors, who have been notorious for cattle raids and possession of illegal firearms. The successful recoveries have been attributed to the continued security community engagement to embrace a voluntary approach to disarmament operations, leading to the existing presidential initiative.
As the festive season approaches, the security forces are urging the public to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to ensure their safety. The public is advised to practice neighborhood watch, create target hardening mechanisms, avoid leaving small children alone at home, have planned journeys, and avoid drink driving. The security forces assure the public of their safety during the festive season.
IP Longole Mike, the Acting Public Relations Officer of MT Moroto/ASTU, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and security. “We request the public to enhance vigilance during the festive season by practicing neighborhood watch, creating target hardening mechanisms, avoiding leaving small children alone at home, having planned journeys, and avoiding drink drive,” he said