The Uganda People’s Defense Force and police have launched a joint investigation to ascertain the circumstances under which a group of civilians reportedly attacked soldiers on guard duty in Kayunga district.
The soldiers who had been deployed to guard the property belonging to GM Company Limited were reportedly attacked and humiliated by a group of stick-wielding rowdy residents on October 23, 2023.
Major Charles Kabona, UPDF 1st Infantry Division Spokesperson, said the soldiers were attacked while conducting a routine patrol in the area.
He adds that the incident is being investigated jointly by the army and police. He described it as unfortunate and cautioned civilians to avoid attacking armed security personnel on duty, saying it could be fatal.
“UPDF is a disciplined, professional, and pro-people’s army with well-established legal and administrative frameworks, and any indiscipline soldier can be reported and action taken,” said Major Kabona.
According to the army, the soldiers were deployed there to protect GM Company and the surrounding areas.
In a video clip that went viral on social media, the soldiers were reportedly attacked and manhandled by civilians who have been in conflict with the private company, accusing it of grabbing their land.
The land in question was sold to GM Company by His Royal Highness the Sabbanyala of Buruli Kimeze, but the family members were against the sale.
