By Nathan Eyagu
In a decisive intelligence-led operation, joint security forces neutralized two notorious warriors and recovered an SMG rifle (number H9211) with 27 live rounds of ammunition in Karenga district, Karamoja Sub-region.
The two warriors, identified as Issa Lokuria and Lemukol Lopiringole, both residents of Lolelia Sub-county in Kaabong district, met their fate during the operation. Their accomplice, Tayal Korianga, a male adult, was captured alive and remains in custody.
According to Maj Isaac Oware the Public Information Officer of 3rd Division - UPDF said in a press statement, the operation, which involved a brief exchange of gunfire, was conducted on 25th September 2024 at around 1320 hours. The target was a criminals' hideout in Lokodope village, Naoyagum parish in Kawalakol Sub-county, where the group had been camping for days, plotting appalling crimes against humanity.
Issa Lokuria, the slain leader of the group, had terrorized innocent residents in the sub-counties of Kathile, Lolelia, Sangar, Karenga, Morungole, and Kawalakol for many years. His criminal network was also involved in cross-border smuggling of small arms and ammunition, as well as poaching wildlife in Kidepo Valley National Park, often in alliance with criminal elements from South Sudan.
"This successful operation follows years of pursuit by security forces, along with efforts from local leadership to persuade the group to take advantage of the existing Amnesty Window", Maj Isaac Oware
The joint security forces reaffirm their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Karamoja Sub-region and upholding the territorial integrity of Uganda.
