The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have conducted strategic deployments of additional troops within both the third and fifth divisions to counter the rampant cattle rustling within the Lango, Teso, and Acholi sub regions.
Accordingly, the UPDF 501 Infantry Brigade under the command of Colonel Benard Kashemeza is headquartered in Abuku, Abim district, whereas the 81 Infantry Battalion, commanded by Maj. Stephen Omonyi, which previously operated in Abim, was re-adjusted to cover Agago district.
Recently, Brig Gen Felix Busizoori, the Deputy Division Commander, pitched camp in the district last month and conducted a strategic assessment in a bid to counter rebels who had frequented the Lango and Acholi regions.
“Based on the security situation and assessment, we have tactically deployed and re-adjusted troops for peace to prevail. Peace in Abim means peace to Otuke, Agago, and parts of Kitgum,” said Brig. Gen. Busizoori in a meeting with district leaders.
The brigade-sized troops are tasked with conducting decisive operations to secure Abim district, while 81, headquartered at Labworodwong barracks, will take charge of Agago district.
James Shilaku, Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Abim, district leaders, and residents welcomed the new deployments. “The UPDF has given us good shape and commitment to change the previous situation into a peaceful one,” said Mr. Shilaku.
He noted that previously the security situation in the district was characterized by isolated incidences of murder, cattle thefts, arson, and kipnaps by some criminal elements, yet Abim is a non-raiding community.
The RDC appealed to the residents to cooperate with security forces in providing timely and accurate information regarding criminal elements for prompt response.
Capt. (Rtd.) Yuventine Omara, the LCV Chairperson, thanked the UPDF leadership for honoring the district’s request for additional deployment of troops.
The Chairperson explained that the Abim district council passed a resolution and offered UPDF 300 acres of land in Arerek sub county. He asked the division leadership and Military Land Board to closely work with the district to expedite the title process.
