The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) announced on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, that they have initiated a board of inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the loss of life during an exchange of gunfire between the army and warriors.
Major Isaac Oware, the Spokesperson of the Third Division, disclosed that the incident occurred on January 15, 2024, around 11:00 pm. A victim was shot during a brief exchange of fire along River Okilim in Ayole village, Korite Parish, Girik sub-county, Kween District.
The area where the incident took place serves as a corridor within the Pian Upe Game Reserve, according to Major Oware.
“The joint security forces in Amudat district reported an incident where a male adult by the name of Lokipurat Amadanyang, 40 years and resident of Lokai village, Arukanes Parish, Lokalesi sub-county in Amudat district succumbed to gunshot wounds,” he stated.
A team of investigators visited the scene of the crime and documented it, while the body was removed for post-mortem examination. Three shepherds who were with the deceased were also present during the incident. As of now, no arrests have been made.
Major Oware highlighted that the Ayole village/corridor, where the incident occurred, is a fertile area within Pian Upe Game Reserve. This area is often targeted by pastoral communities, leading to conflicts over grazing land, cultivation, and poaching. The region has witnessed tensions between the Sabiny and Pokot communities, resulting in suffering and loss of innocent lives.
Major Oware cited a previous incident on May 16, 2023, where Francis Mutai, a resident of Korite Parish, Girik sub-county, Kween District, was killed by suspected Pokot herdsmen.
The spokesperson issued a cautionary note, urging communities to refrain from grazing, cultivation, and poaching in designated gazetted areas.
