The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has apologized to families of people shot dead by a Special Forces Command (SFC) soldier, Pte Bonny Ameny and also extended financial assistance of five million shillings.
Pte Ameny fatally shot Santino Akidi, aged 47, Sunday Apiyo aged 21, and Florence Ajal aged 16 on 20 October 2024 in Paimol village, Agago District. Other than the deceased, Pte Ameny also injured three others.
Gen Muhoozi in the apology and financial assistance delivered by his deputy Lt Gen Sam Okiding, has also given the injured persons three million shillings for treatment. “We are deeply sorry for what happened. We reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to support the victims and ensure accountability,” Lt Gen Okiding said.
Pte Ameny started facing trial yesterday at the Division Court Martial in Paimol village. Lt Gen Okiding also encouraged parents in Agago to prioritise education because one needs some level of academic qualification.
“To compete in Uganda, one must have education,” and urged them to utilise government schemes like the Parish Development Model to tackle poverty, with a focus on agricultural initiatives,” Lt Gen Okiding said.
Brig Gen Keith Katungi, Commander 5Th Infantry Division, who accompanied Lt Gen Okiding while meeting deceased’s families called for community cooperation in maintaining peace, particularly in combating cattle raids.
A fortnight ago, UPDF Court Martial sentenced Pte Robert Herbatison Birivumbuka, to death after he confessed to killing five people in Mayuge District in June this year. Pte Birivumbuka, was also an SFC soldier attached to Mbarara traveled to Mayuge, where he committed the offense before heading back.