Adjumani, (UG): Police in Adjumani District have commenced the arrest and questioning of local leaders implicated in the deadly tribal clashes in Apaa that have claimed 7 lives, scores badly injured and several unaccounted for.
According to police summons dated December 5, 2023, signed by ASP Magomu Godfrey, the OC CID at Adjumani CPS, more than 40 suspects have been summoned to record statements on charges related to arson and murder preferred against them.
DailyExpress understands that Mr Iranya Jesus, the LC3 Chairman of Itirikwa sub-county in Adjumani was on Wednesday 6th December, grilled for over three hours but later granted police bond.
Similarly, Gbayi LCI Chairperson, Mr Udru Robert who was summoned alongside 3 other village chairpersons in the troubled Itirikwa sub-county was yesterday detained after thorough interrogation.
The LCI chairpersons who were summoned for questioning on Thursday, December 7th 2023, but released on police bond include; Anyama Ezekiel, (Olui Village), Amadara Lazarus (Zoka Village) both in Zoka parish and Mr Edema Charles of Aliwara Village in Mungula Parish.
The Gombolola Internal Security Office (GISO)r Itirikwa Mr Isadru Isaac said that he was also summoned for questioning but the police exonerated him of any wrongdoing.
Police Open General Enquiry File.
Speaking to DailyExpress on Friday, December 08, a well-placed police officer in Adjumani said the police are investigating the cause and the perpetrators behind the gruesome killings and burning of houses in Oyanga area inside East Madi Wild Life reserve that occurred between November 29,2023-December 1, 2023.
“A general Enquiry file (G.E.) has been opened and over 40 suspects are being investigated over alleged arson and murder, but the police have not arrested any suspect, we are still conducting investigations and upon completion, we shall forward the file to DPP for advice,” He said.
The officer added that the detention of the LCI chairman of Gbayi village Mr Udru Robert is not related to the offence of Arson and Murder and pointed out that he was held because of a pending case of arson and theft which was registered under CRB/663/23, but was later granted bail on Friday evening and told to report back next week on 13th.
Adjumani district boss warns on indiscriminate arrests.
The Adjumani District LC Chairman, Mr Anyama Ben said that much as he doesn’t condone crime, he cautioned the police against making indiscriminate arrests of the people in Adjumani based on claims from the individuals and leaders in Amuru and Acholi subregion because it would be another fertile ground for conflict.
“I appeal to the DPC Bwire Moses and his team to act professionally so that the outcome of their investigations does not complicate the already volatile situation in Apaa and the future relationship between Acholi and Madi,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the police have continued to comb the vast area of Oyanga (Opeareni)for the body of Mr. Igama Patrick the LCII Chairman of Kariba Parish in Ukusijoni sub-county and several others who were reported missing following the 4 days of fighting.
This publication also understands that thousands of illegal settlers in the wildlife reserve are vacating after the UPDF 4th Division Commander Brigadier Michael Kabango ordered them to leave or face forceful eviction, it is estimated that since Monday this week over 10,000 have left.
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