Suspect in Killing of Local Council Chairperson & UPDF Officer Arrested

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KOTIDO – The combined efforts of the joint security forces have successfully apprehended the perpetrator responsible for the tragic deaths of Chairperson of Local Council III of Longaroe Sub County, Lomuria Moses, and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Officer, Lt Issa Mayende.

At approximately 6:30 PM on August 26, 2023, the joint security forces, in close cooperation with law-abiding citizens (wanainchi) who provided valuable information, swiftly responded to a tip-off. This rapid and effective operation led to the arrest of the criminal Modo John Apakori at a remote hideout in Kacheri.

Recalling the unfortunate events of July 2, 2023, the male perpetrator, Modo John Apakori, a resident of Losilang village in the North Division of Kotido Municipality, deliberately and reportedly took the lives of Lt Issa Mayende and Lomuria Moses. The two victims were tragically shot during a brief meeting at Longaroe Trading Centre in Kotido district.

Following the criminal act, Apakori sought refuge in the secluded Kacheri hideouts until his eventual apprehension. The law enforcement team successfully recovered an SMG with the serial number UPDF CP 3036, along with six live rounds of ammunition. These items were previously stolen from a fallen UPDF soldier by a network of hostile actors.

Modo John Apakori is currently in the custody of the UPDF at the 405 Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Nakaperimoru Sub County, Kotido district. He will remain there while a comprehensive investigation and thorough interrogations are conducted.

Once the meticulous investigative process concludes, Apakori will face charges of murder and illegal possession of a firearm, among other counts, in a court of law.

Uganda Peoples Defense Force spokesperson, Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, expressed his appreciation for the residents of Kacheri Trading Centre and the security forces operating in Kotido district.

Their vigilance and prompt response were instrumental in the apprehension of this dangerous criminal. Brig Gen Kulayigye emphasized that this achievement underscores the strong public support, goodwill, and commitment to peace.