KAMPALA – The UPDF has confirmed the arrest of two soldiers, a policeman and a civilian in an armed robbery attempt in Makindye Division, Kampala City.
On Friday, a video made rounds on social media showing security operatives arresting and dumping two men in military uniform and one in police attire on a pickup truck.
And on Saturday, the UPDF released a statement, indicating that the group was picked up in Buziga following a tip-off by residents about a group of armed robbers.
The suspects were identified by the army as Lt Tobias Turyabaruhanga, a retired UPDF officer and resident of Entebbe; Lance Corporal Muzoora Benjamin, a UPDF deserter; ASP Bishaka Godson, an OC of Kikumbi Police Station in Najjanankumbi and Mutagi Gerald, a resident of Entebbe.
The deputy army spokesman, Lt Col Deo Akiika, in a statement, said the operation was carried out by the Internal Security Organisation (ISO) officers. The suspects were found with among others an AK 47 rifle belonging to the Police as well as 29 rounds
“As soon as investigations are completed, the suspects shall be produced before courts of law for eventual prosecution,” Col Akiiki said.
He added that such operations involving other security organs are ongoing across Kampala, Mukono, Wakiso and other parts of the country.
Akiiki praised the residents of Buziga for being vigilance and making timely reporting of information that led to several successful operations.
“Security agencies shall continue to work together in an effort of keeping the country safe and free for the business community and all Ugandans in general,” he said.
“Any member of the armed forces whether retired, deserter or serving, that involves himself or herself in such acts commits a grave offence that attracts a maximum punishment as stipulated in our laws. We condemn such actions by individuals and reiterate our commitment to weed out anyone who veers off the strict code of conduct of our institutions.”