The Commander of the UPDF 3 Infantry Division, Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, has directed the formation of a cross-district security alliance between Kotido and Kaabong to tackle cattle theft, armed criminal gangs, and inter-clan conflicts in the Karamoja region.
The army commander issued the directive during a high-level security meeting held at Lokomebu Sub-county Headquarters.
The meeting brought together Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) from both districts, district and sub-county security committees, local government officials, kraal leaders, peace committee members, religious leaders, and LC I chairpersons.
Maj Gen Sserunkuma stressed that security challenges in the area can no longer be handled in isolation by individual districts.
He called for a united approach to address livestock raiding, the movement of armed criminals, and communal clashes in order to create the stability needed for development.
“These efforts must not stop at the district level. We must take peace deep into the communities and villages,” he said.
The commander reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Karamoja.
He ordered all local leaders and security units to strictly implement presidential directives aimed at restoring law and order in the region.
“Cattle, illegal firearms, people, and conflicts move across boundaries. Security must therefore be managed jointly with the active involvement of communities and local leaders,” Maj Gen Sserunkuma added.
Kotido RDC Charles Ichogor welcomed the initiative, saying it will promote peaceful coexistence among previously conflicting communities.
He encouraged residents to embrace reconciliation and urged those holding illegal weapons to surrender them under the ongoing presidential amnesty.
Kaabong RDC Stephen Latek emphasized that sustainable peace starts at the household level and called on families to promptly report any suspicious armed movements.
ASTU Commandant ACP Francis Chemusto urged the public to reject mob justice, stop cattle raiding, prioritize children’s education, and address alcohol abuse to reduce domestic violence.
Local leaders, including Kotido District LCV Chairperson Paul Komol Lotee and LC III Councillor Moses Adingdong, expressed support for the peace efforts and highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between security agencies and civilians.
Community representatives welcomed the resolutions but appealed to the government to address key challenges, including the reopening of the Moroto-Abim road and protecting crops from rogue elephants.
They also commended the UPDF and ASTU for their effectiveness in recovering stolen livestock.
The meeting was well attended by leaders from several sub-counties in both Kotido and Kaabong districts.
