UPDF Sergeant Killed in Ambush by Suspected Cattle Raiders in Yumbe

Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) sergeant has been killed in an ambush by suspected cattle raiders in Yumbe District, authorities have confirmed.

The deceased, identified as Sgt. Jonas Mukundane, 42, was the officer in charge of Kupia Army Detachment in Kerwa Sub-county. The incident occurred on April 19, 2026, at around 5:00 p.m. in Kupia Village.

According to preliminary reports, a joint security team had responded to intelligence from a local resident who reported sighting six suspicious individuals—five of them armed—heading toward Kilaji Village. Acting on the tip-off, the UPDF unit mounted a follow-up operation but was ambushed, triggering an exchange of gunfire.

Confirming the incident, North West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson Collins Asea said a case of murder by shooting has been registered at Kerwa Police Station under CRB008/2026.

“This was a targeted ambush on our security team. We commend the joint response, and investigations are ongoing to track down the remaining suspects,” Asea said.

Security personnel processed the scene, and an SMG rifle loaded with 26 rounds of ammunition was recovered and secured as evidence.

Asea added that the body of the fallen officer was evacuated to the Gulu Army Division, while that of a suspected raider—who was killed during the exchange—was transported to Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examination.

Police and UPDF have since launched a joint operation to pursue the fleeing suspects, who are believed to have retreated toward the South Sudan border.

“We appeal to the community to remain calm and continue sharing information that can help security agencies apprehend the perpetrators,” Asea said.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing as security forces intensify efforts to track down those responsible.