Security Alert: UPDF Arrests Five Soldiers Following Escape Of 3 Civilian Suspects

In a startling turn of events, three civilian suspects managed to escape from the tightly guarded confines of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) detention facility at the Mountain Division headquarters in Muhooti barracks. Richard Aliganyira, 34, Chris Ruweez, 25, and Bashir Kasaijja, 31, had been detained since November 2023 on charges of aggravated robbery.

The escape, shrouded in mystery as the specifics of the suspects’ alleged offenses remain undisclosed to the public, has sent shockwaves through the security apparatus. Major Bilal Katamba, the public information officer of UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, confirmed the breach, stating that the trio was due to face charges in the division court-martial.

“Yesterday (Tuesday) three suspects escaped from our detention facility at Mountain Division headquarters Muhooti. They were to appear before the Division court-martial. Efforts are underway to apprehend them, but we have already notified our security agencies to work together to see that they are re-arrested,” Major Katamba announced.

In response to the security breach, five soldiers who were on duty during the night of the escape have been detained for questioning. Among them is the guard commander. This move, according to Major Katamba, aims to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The escape of the three suspects has raised concerns about the security protocols in military detention facilities. Authorities are under pressure to address the loopholes exposed by this incident and ensure the swift re-apprehension of the fugitives. The public remains vigilant as the search for Aliganyira, Ruweez, and Kasaijja intensifies.