The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed the tragic death of one of its officers in an apparent suicide incident in Nakirebe, located between Wakiso and Mpigi districts.
The incident occurred on New Year’s Day at around 2:00 PM, according to Col. Deo Akiiki, the UPDF Deputy Spokesperson.
The officer, identified as RO/13999 Lt. Ariho Amon, was serving under the UPDF Engineering Brigade.
Reports indicate that Lt. Ariho, while driving a black car with registration number UBJ 493Q, stopped at a local football playground.
Eyewitnesses allege that he ordered the players to leave the field before retrieving an SMG rifle from his vehicle and taking his own life.
“Our soldiers from a nearby detachment and the police immediately responded to the scene and cordoned it off,” Col. Akiiki said. He added that the officer’s phone and documents were recovered from his vehicle.
The body of the deceased was transported to Mulago Mortuary for post-mortem examination, while the firearm and vehicle were taken to Mpigi Police Station for further investigation.
Col. Akiiki expressed the UPDF’s regret over the incident and assured the public that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the tragic event.
“We strongly condemn such acts in the strongest terms,” he said.
The UPDF reiterated its commitment to supporting its personnel and addressing challenges affecting mental health within its ranks.
Further updates on the investigation will be provided here.
