Kotido, Uganda — Joint security forces have recovered an illegal firearm in Kotido District as part of ongoing operations to curb armed crime in the Karamoja sub-region.
According to the Uganda Police Force, the operation was conducted by the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) together with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces following intelligence reports.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said the operation led to the recovery of a submachine gun.
“Joint security forces… successfully recovered an illegal firearm during an intelligence-led operation,” Rusoke said. “The operation led to the forceful recovery of one SMG rifle with a single round of ammunition from Lolem Lopusiteba, a 68-year-old resident of Kanamwar Village, Longaroe Sub-county, Kotido District.”
Authorities say the recovery is linked to investigations into a recent highway robbery along the Kaabong–Kotido road. The suspect’s son, identified as Locheng Apalothia, is alleged to have used the weapon during the incident.
The latest development follows an earlier operation on April 2, 2026, in which joint forces impounded 107 head of cattle and three donkeys from the same area in connection with the robbery.
Rusoke confirmed that both the recovered firearm and the suspect are now in the custody of the UPDF for further management.
Security agencies say disarmament efforts in Karamoja are ongoing, with a focus on eliminating illegal firearms and restoring stability in the region.
“Security and disarmament operations remain ongoing across the Karamoja sub-region, aimed at curbing the illegal possession of firearms and restoring peace within communities,” Rusoke added.
Karamoja has long faced challenges related to armed cattle rustling and cross-border crime, with authorities intensifying joint operations to improve safety along key transport routes.
