By Insight Post Uganda
Budaka-Uganda
Amid the ongoing Operation Shujja in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a tragic incident recently occurred resulting in the death of a Ugandan soldier during a violent altercation with a local bar owner.
The soldier who lost his life has been identified as Martin Mbwayo, aged 23, serving with the 1st Infantry Battalion under First Division.
The unfortunate incident occurred on July 18 at around 8:00 pm in Nabugalo trading centre, while Mbwayo was at the bar.
However, the specific cause of the heated argument that led to the violent outcome remains unclear.
Mbwayo had secured a pass to return to his hometown in Bulomi village, Nanjala parish, Kameruka sub-county, Budaka district.
A “pass” is a granted permission for a limited absence from one’s military unit. During this time, the days spent on a pass are not deducted from the total annual leave allotment, which refers to the number of days a service member is entitled to take off from their duties.
Following the altercation, the bar owner fled the scene to evade retaliation from other soldiers and potential arrest.
Mbwayo’s family promptly rushed him to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, but his condition worsened, necessitating urgent intervention from Bugema Army Barracks.
On July 22, 2023, the authorities decided to transfer him to Bombo General Military Hospital, but he passed away in the process.
Maj. Isaac Oware, the spokesperson for the Third Division UPDF, revealed that the main suspect, identified as Robert Kanyatta, is still at large.
Authorities are coordinating with Budaka Central Police Station and other security intelligence agencies to apprehend the suspect.
The authorities are urging the deceased soldier’s family and relatives to remain patient and allow the concerned authorities to handle the matter.
Meanwhile, the bar where the incident occurred has been closed as it is treated as a crime scene while investigations are ongoing.
Operation Shujaa, is a joint operation between Uganda and DRC armies against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) splinter groups in Eastern DRC.
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