UPDF Soldiers Arrested After Allegedly Assaulting Civilians, Threatening MP Christine Gwok-Adako in Lira District

LIRA, UGANDA – January 13, 2026: Two Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers were arrested and handed over to their military command for disciplinary action on January 12, 2026, following a dramatic incident that included alleged assaults on civilians, a high-speed chase, and the threat of a firearm against a Member of Parliament.

According to a statement from the Territorial Police in Lira District, the ordeal began when police received a report at approximately 1:00 p.m. indicating that a group of soldiers was assaulting members of the public and supporters of Hon. Akello Christine in Addu Village, Ogur Sub-county.

Police teams were immediately deployed to the scene. While en route, they encountered a UPDF pickup truck travelling at high speed with its number plate concealed by mud. The vehicle allegedly failed to stop for police and continued towards Lira City.

The situation escalated when the Area MP, Hon. Akello Christine, reportedly followed the vehicle to Agweng Town Council. Upon identifying herself to the soldiers, one of them allegedly threatened her with a firearm. The MP promptly alerted the Lira District Police Commander (DPC) and the District Internal Security Officer (DISO), who coordinated a response.

A pursuit ensued as the suspects’ vehicle defied orders to stop and bypassed multiple traffic checkpoints. The chase concluded when the soldiers diverted to the Lira City Central Police Station, where they were apprehended.

The UPDF’s Sector Commander, Division Intelligence Officer, and the Regional Internal Security Officer were notified and responded to the scene. During the operation, police recovered three sacks of kitenge material, which were later handed over to Hon. Akello Christine as exhibits.

During interrogation, the suspects claimed they were acting on instructions from a superior. In light of this and the nature of the allegations, the police formally handed the two soldiers over to the UPDF 5th Division Headquarters for further investigation and action under military law.

The North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, strongly condemned the acts of violence. “We, as a region, strongly condemn all acts of violence, especially those allegedly perpetrated by individuals entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the public,” the statement read. It further noted that the police leadership is engaging with the UPDF high command to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

The police PRO for North Kyoga police Region , urged citizens to promptly report any individuals or groups intending to cause chaos or violence to the relevant security agencies.