Landmark Verdict: Four Civilians Sentenced for Shocking Murder Spree in Kotido District

In Kotido District, the 3rd Infantry Division Court Martial (DCM) held its session at Longaroe and Nakapelimoru Sub-counties, leading to the conviction of four civilians for the murder of the Local Council Three Chairperson of Longaroe Sub-county, Hon. Lomuria Moses, Lt Issa Mayende, Private Mwanika David, and Lokol Peter.

Colonel Francis Kateraho, chairing the Division Court Martial, presided over the proceedings, where it was revealed that on July 2, 2023, in Narubela village, Longaroe Sub-county, Modo John Apakoru, Lomuramoe Paul, Lomoru Lopukan, and Koryang Timothy were responsible for the fatal shooting of the Local Council Three Chairperson, Hon. Lomuria Moses, along with Lt Issa Mayende, Private Mwanika David, and Lokol Peter.

The accused faced four charges of murder under Sections 188 and 189 Art 22 (1) and Section 191 of the Penal Code Act. After a thorough evaluation of the prosecution’s evidence, the court found Modo John Apakori, Lomuriamoe Paul, and Lomoru Lopukan guilty of murder and attempted murder, sentencing each to 60 years imprisonment for all counts to be served concurrently.

In a related incident, Koryang Timothy received a 20-year imprisonment sentence for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. Described as the gang’s leader terrorizing communities in Agago, Koryang’s arrest prompted a retaliatory attack that resulted in the murder of four individuals.

Furthermore, the Division Court Martial handed a 65-year imprisonment sentence to Private Lokidi Peter, affiliated with the 23 Infantry Battalion in 2 Division. Lokidi Peter, on leave, fatally shot Watakao LC1 Chairperson Lojale Peter, Locheng Lopiringole, Angol Lochoriathe, and injured Apakuruk Longole and Akure Daniel. The court emphasized that Lokidi’s actions not only violated Uganda’s laws but also tarnished the image of the UPDF, expressing regret over his betrayal of the duty to protect the very people he was meant to safeguard.