Soldier succumbs to injuries sustained in Iganga encounter

Iganga, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Private Osubon Kowe from Mbuya military barracks has succumbed to the injuries he sustained during the joint security operation that led to the arrest of private Rodgers Alibuza on Saturday. Kowe was part of the joint security forces that engaged in a gunfire exchange with Alibuza in Nkaatu ward, Northern division of Iganga municipality.

The joint security forces cordoned off Nkaatu ward after receiving information that Alibuza was behind the attack on Gaddafi barracks where he killed Sergent Peter Eyagu and made off with two guns. During the operation, an unspecified number of soldiers including Kowe sustained injuries in the shoot-out. Security recovered two guns and 88 rounds of live ammunition alongside other exhibits from Alibuza’s residence.

A health worker from Iganga general hospital told URN on condition of anonymity that a team of UPDF medical personnel beefed up their resident surgical team. However, Kowe who was hit in a sensitive area couldn’t make it. He noted that three other injured soldiers are out of danger and positively responding to treatment.

A team of UPDF personnel picked up the deceased’s body from the mortuary. The Busoga East police spokesperson, Diana Nandawula confirmed the death of a UPDF soldier but declined to divulge details, saying they will issue a detailed report about the operation after concluding their inquiries.

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URN