Kole, Uganda | Police in North Kyoga Region, in coordination with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), have launched investigations into a fatal shooting incident that occurred on Saturday night, 2nd November 2025, in Akalo Town Council, Kole District.
According to the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the incident happened at around 8:30 p.m. along the Lira–Kwania Highway.
It involved a UPDF soldier, No. 290075 Private Koboi Samson, aged 27, attached to the 103 Battalion in Lira Barracks.
Preliminary police findings indicate that the deceased, Olwit Santo, aged 27, a peasant farmer from Akek Cell, Western Ward ‘B’, Akalo Town Council, together with an unidentified accomplice, allegedly attempted to forcibly disarm the soldier of his rifle.
A violent struggle reportedly ensued, during which the officer, acting in self-defense and fearing the loss of his weapon, discharged his firearm, fatally shooting Olwit.
A stray bullet also struck Elem Allan, aged 19, a resident of Dibadi Village, Akalo Parish, who sustained an injury on the right side of his ribs. He was rushed to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for treatment.
Police officers from Kole Central Police Station and Akalo Town Council Police Post swiftly responded to the scene, led by the District Police Commander.
The area was cordoned off, and forensic teams documented the scene.
The body of the deceased was later taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examination.
SP Okema confirmed that Pte. Koboi Samson was arrested and handed over to the UPDF authorities at Lira Military Barracks for internal disciplinary review and further management as investigations continue.
The officer is under review while police continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police extended condolences to the bereaved family and wished a quick recovery to the injured victim.