GULU. Security forces have recovered two guns and arrested eight suspects following a joint operation in Aswa West Police Region.
The operation followed a recent wave of armed robberies and killings in Gulu City, Gulu District and Omoro District.
According to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, the three-week operation led to the recovery of two sub-machine guns with 30 bullets. Security teams also recovered other military hardware.
Capt David Kamya, the UPDF 4th Division public information officer, said the army conducted the operation together with the police and the Internal Security Organisation.
“The operation was in response to escalating armed criminal activities that have adversely affected security and local communities in the region,” Capt Kamya said.
Suspects Face Several Charges
Security officials said investigations are still ongoing.
The suspects face several charges, including murder, attempted murder, possession of government stores, aggravated robbery, and theft of firearms from security personnel and institutions.
One of the suspects, Daniel Komakech, later died from injuries sustained during the operation.
According to security sources, Komakech was shot on June 18 at Purongo in Nwoya District after he allegedly attempted to disarm a security officer.
The recovered weapons and suspects have also been linked to poaching activities inside Murchison Falls National Park.
Authorities said the suspects were allegedly found in possession of wildlife parts.
Transport Gaps Affect Crime Response
In Gulu City, security officials say transport challenges are weakening efforts to respond quickly to gun crime.
Mr Peter Banya, the Gulu City Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Pece-Laroo Division, said limited mobility has affected police operations.
He said security personnel remain committed to stopping armed criminals, but lack of transport slows rapid deployment.
“The challenge that we have in the city is that the police have a problem with mobility. They don’t have transport, and that has affected their operations so much,” Mr Banya said.
He added that limited cooperation from residents has also affected investigations.
“There’s a joint operation between the UPDF and Uganda police. They are handling some of these incidents, but it’s taking a lot of time because our other challenge is that the local people are not speaking. Someone sees somebody somewhere doing something, but they fear coming out and revealing to us for fear of reprisal,” Mr Banya said.
Security authorities say the operation will continue as investigations into the recovered weapons, suspects and recent attacks proceed.