The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) is under scrutiny after two civilians were shot dead by soldiers guarding a community kraal in Kitgum District on the night of August 28, 2025.
The incident occurred at Kitleng Detach in Namukora Sub-County around 11:19 pm, when troops opened fire on two men they believed were cattle thieves attempting to steal cultivating bulls from nearby Lapenyi farmland. 
It later emerged, however, that the suspicion was unfounded. Local leaders reported that the victims had been drinking, lost their way, and were moving during restricted hours.
The deceased were identified as Mr. Obutu Joseph (50), of Mangeyi Village, Panyum Melong Parish, and Mr. Opira Richard (42), of Amoyo Kol Village, Pella Parish, both in Omia Nyima Sub-County, Kitgum District.
Maj Gen Keith Katungi, commander of the 5 Infantry Division, has since reached out to the families of the victims to coordinate burial arrangements and deliver condolences on behalf of the army.
In its statement, the UPDF described the shooting as a tragic mistake:
“While the soldiers acted on a perceived threat, the UPDF extends its sympathy to the families of the bereaved and reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Ugandans.”
The army further appealed to communities to cooperate with security forces by observing local bylaws and avoiding movements that could trigger security alerts.
The UPDF has in recent years deployed heavily in northern Uganda to protect livestock amid recurring cattle thefts, but incidents like the Kitgum shooting highlight the risks faced by both troops and civilians in the region.
