Security Forces Arrest 1,724 Warriors And Recover 17 Illegal Guns in Karamoja Operation

Joint security forces have arrested more armed warriors and recovered several guns during a cordon and search intelligence-led operation against the possession of illegal guns and livestock theft in Karamoja.

This was revealed by Brig Gen Joseph Balikudembe, the commander of UPDF 3 Division and overall Commander of operation “Usalama Kwa Wote” during a press briefing in Moroto town.

Brig Gen Balikudembe said the operations intends to restore peace since they have developed capacity to effectively fight the warriors.

The operation has led to the recovery of 17 illegal guns, 1,724 warriors arrested and 316 have been prosecuted.

The Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Karamoja, Elias Kasirabo, said that the security forces will continue to put out of action any enemies of peace in the sub-region irrespective of the changing tactics from the warriors.

The operation has also recovered 170 illegal riffles, 2,232 Rounds of Ammunition and 15,558 stolen cattle since its inception in July 2021.

He said the warriors have resorted to using poisonous bows and arrows as alternative weapons during livestock raids in Kotido, Moroto and Nakapiripirit districts.

‘Usalama Kwa Wote’ loosely translated as ‘Peace for All’ aims at the total restoration of peace and security in Karamoja sub-region.