Security forces in Kotido have arrested a warrior and recovered a submachine gun during resumed cordon and search operations. According to Mt Moroto Regional Police Spokesperson Mike Longole, an SMG rifle, serial number UG 1175, with one round of ammunition, was recovered on 12 June 2026 at around 10:00 am.
The firearm was recovered from a suspect in custody identified as Lobe Lokure, 30, a resident of Kanamwar 1 Village, Naponga Parish, Longaroe Sub-County. Longole said the recovery followed an intelligence-led cordon and search operation conducted on 11 June 2026 at around 6:00 am in Kanamwar Village by the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) and UPDF.
“The suspect was arrested during the cordon and search operation, and 94 head of cattle were impounded to aid in the recovery of the illegal firearm,” Longole said. He confirmed Lokure is currently in custody. The gun was handed over on Friday to joint security forces at Victor Battalion Headquarters, Kacheri Sub-County, through Raphael Abunga, LC3 Chairperson of Longaroe Sub-County.
Longole said Lokure and others still at large are alleged to have been involved in raiding neighboring districts of Agago and Kitgum, and in poaching within Kidepo National Game Park. “Operations shall continue using all available mechanisms to ensure all illegal firearms are out of the community for peace to prevail,” Longole warned.
He added that the impounded animals are pending official handover to their rightful owners. Security forces had scaled back cordon and search operations following human rights concerns. Activists had reported violations including torture, infringement on the right to privacy, property destruction, and shootings of suspects attempting to flee.
Forces then resorted to voluntary disarmament and minimal force, but recoveries remained minimal, prompting a return to targeted cordon operations-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
