A joint security operation in Kaabong District has led to the arrest of three suspects, including a man believed to be a notorious armed raider and commander of local warriors, as authorities intensify efforts to restore peace in the Karamoja sub-region.
According to the Uganda Police Force, the operation was conducted on April 17, 2026, following intelligence reports about the suspect’s whereabouts. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said security agencies received information at around 5:00 pm that the suspect was drinking waragi at Napeikodo Centre in Lomeris Parish, Kaabong West Sub-county.
“Security agencies received intelligence indicating that a notorious armed suspect, believed to be a commander of armed warriors in Kaabong, was drinking waragi at Napeikodo Centre,” Rusoke said.
A joint team comprising the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) swiftly responded, resulting in the arrest of three individuals.
Among those apprehended was Ngora Alinga Lonyangateba, a resident of Morulem Village, who is suspected to be a key figure in cattle raiding activities in the area.
“During preliminary interrogation, the suspect admitted to possessing a firearm and provided leads on who could be in possession of the rifle,” Rusoke added.
All three suspects were transferred to the UPDF 45 Battalion Headquarters in Kaabong for further management and ongoing investigations.
Security agencies have since launched follow-up operations aimed at recovering the firearm and apprehending additional suspects linked to criminal activity in the region.
Authorities say the crackdown is part of continued efforts to dismantle armed groups and enhance security in Karamoja, which has long been affected by cattle rustling and illegal firearms.
