UPDF officer shoots self dead at football match on New Year’s Day

Mpigi, (UG);- The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shocking death of one of its officers who shot himself dead at a football ground in Nakirebe, Mpigi District on New Year’s Day.

Preliminary findings indicate that on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at around 2 pm, the deceased identified as Lt. Ariho Amon stopped his car at the pitch, dispersed the players, and then fatally shot himself with his SMG rifle.

Maj. Charles Kabona, UPDF First Division spokesperson says authorities, including soldiers and police officers, quickly arrived at the scene, securing the area and retrieved Lt. Ariho’s phone and documents from his vehicle.

Col. Deo Akiiki, the UPDF Deputy Defence Public Information Officer, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the army will thoroughly examine the factors surrounding Lt. Ariho’s death. “The engineer took his life, and we shall investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident,” he said.

He highlighted the ongoing efforts by the UPDF to address mental health challenges within its ranks.

“We have been training our personnel to recognise the signs of stress and to provide support to those who need it,” Akiiki said. “In recent years, we have seen an increase in mental health issues among our personnel,” he added.

Akiiki admitted that while progress has been made, there is still significant ground to cover in tackling mental health issues effectively.

Lt Ariho’s body was subsequently transported to Mulago Hospital mortuary, while the rifle and car were taken to Mpigi Police Station for further analysis.