The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) confirmed an intense skirmish with Pokot warriors from Kenya. The clash, occurring in Kawach Sub-county, Nakapiripirit District, resulted in the injury of one soldier and the tragic loss of several cows that were being pilfered by the warriors.

Maj. Moses Amuya, the acting Third Division Spokesperson, disclosed that the Pokot warriors encountered UPDF soldiers from the 51 Infantry Battalion, 407 Nakapiripirit, who were conducting routine patrols within the Pian Upe game reserve. The altercation, which ensued in a crossfire, led to the unfortunate death of several cows used by the Pokot warriors as a shield during the exchange of fire.

“In the same incident, one soldier, Private Pauvuga Erimiya, sustained injuries and was promptly evacuated to the Three Division Headquarters in Moroto for further medical attention,” stated Maj. Amuya.

Col. Deo Akiiki, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs’ Deputy Defence Spokesperson, acknowledged that the confrontation took place within a game reserve where armed Pokot tribespeople often graze their livestock. He clarified that the soldiers on patrol did not intend to harm the cattle but were met with retaliation as the rustlers employed the animals as a barrier to engage in the gunfire.

This recent encounter echoes an incident just four days prior, where the UPDF engaged and neutralized four Turkana warriors from Kenya in a gunfire exchange in Magos parish, Rupa Sub-county, Moroto District.

“Despite the Presidential Executive Order and operational guidelines, Turkana criminal elements continue to infiltrate Uganda with firearms, arming Karamojong warriors, conducting raids, and endangering both civilians and soldiers,” emphasized Maj. Amuya.

The UPDF urged communities along the borderlines, particularly the Karamojong, to refrain from collaborating with Turkana rustlers, emphasizing that those found engaging in criminal acts would face legal consequences. Similarly, the Turkana offenders were warned that they would not be exempt from prosecution for their actions.

These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in curbing cross-border conflicts and the need for collaborative efforts to ensure peace and security in the region.

The Ministry of Defence continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of adhering to security directives and preventing the spillover of armed conflicts across the borders.