Joint security forces from the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have recovered an illegal firearm during an intelligence-led operation conducted on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
The operation resulted in the recovery of an SMG rifle loaded with a single round of ammunition from 68-year-old Lolem Lopusiteba, a resident of Kanamwar Village in Longaroe Sub-county, Kotido District.
According to security officials, the recovery is linked to ongoing investigations into a recent highway robbery along the Kaabong–Kotido road. The suspect’s son, Locheng Apalothia, is alleged to have used the firearm during the incident.
Earlier, on April 2, 2026, joint security teams impounded 107 head of cattle and three donkeys from the same village in connection with the robbery.
Uganda Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma confirmed that both the recovered firearm and the suspect are currently in UPDF custody for further management.
He added that security and disarmament operations remain ongoing across the Karamoja sub-region, as authorities intensify efforts to curb the illegal possession of firearms and restore peace within communities.
