Kaabong, Uganda: Rising insecurity in Kaabong District has once again disrupted trade and endangered lives after two local traders narrowly survived an armed ambush by suspected Dodoth warriors along the Kaabong–Kalapata road in Morukori Village, Lotim Sub-county.
The victims, Maganda Suli and Kibone Jalia, were attacked on Friday evening while transporting merchandise to neighbouring markets. The ambush occurred on a key route relied upon by small-scale traders who move goods ranging from clothes and shoes to household essentials across Kaabong and surrounding districts.
According to the traders, the armed assailants emerged suddenly, robbing them of clothes, shoes and two motorcycles, leaving them stranded and shaken. The loss of the motorcycles, their primary tool for transport and business, has dealt a heavy blow to their livelihoods.
Police Confirm Incident, Launch Manhunt
Mt. Moroto Regional Police Spokesperson Mike Longole confirmed the attack, noting that Kaabong has seen a worrying rise in similar armed ambushes targeting traders, boda riders and routine travelers. “These ambushes are not isolated,” Longole said. “They threaten the livelihoods of people who depend on these roads for trade and movement.”
He said joint security forces have begun a manhunt for the attackers and are working to recover the stolen motorcycles and merchandise. Security patrols along the Kaabong–Kalapata road and other vulnerable routes have been intensified.
Longole urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to nearby authorities, warning that continued attacks could destabilise the local economy.
Kaabong District has recently experienced a surge in violent incidents including raids, highway robberies and sporadic armed confrontations. Traders, who form the backbone of the local economy, have become frequent targets, triggering fear, reduced movement and falling market activity.
Security analysts warn that unless joint forces maintain consistent operations and communities actively cooperate, Kaabong risks deeper economic disruption, reduced market access and heightened tensions between pastoral and trading communities.
For now, residents continue to navigate fear and uncertainty, hoping ongoing security efforts will restore safety to the critical trade routes that sustain livelihoods across the district.
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