JINJA: Security agencies are investigating an attack on a UPDF mini check point that leads to Gaddafi Barracks main gate in Jinja that claimed the life of a soldier.
In the attack that took place on Thursday night at around 9pm, a group of armed assailants killed a UPDF officer, identified as Sgt. Eyamu Simon Peter, aged 45, and robbed two guns, including that of his colleague, who had gone to the nearby shop.
According to Police spokesman Fred Enanga, facts gathered indicate that the assailants took advantage of the location of the mini-check point, distanced about 1km away from the main check point to Gaddafi main barracks, the green cover and the Ambercoat market access, which made the mini-check point a soft target.
“They attacked the guard, stabbed him to the right chest and also shot him thrice, killing him instantly. The assailants robbed two guns and fled from the scene. The security barricade at the main Gaddafi barracks checkpoint was not breached,” Enanga said.
He said an immediate search led to the arrest of one suspect who was found hiding in a trench. The second UPDF guard who left his beat at the mini-check point was also arrested for further interrogation.
“We have in addition, deployed full investigative resources, to reconstruct and document the scene. Our joint intelligence and operational teams are also building on their intelligence aimed at identifying and pursuing the assailants,” Enanga said.
The body of the deceased has been transferred to Jinja Regional Referral hospital for further post mortem analysis.
“More updates will be communicated accordingly. We also kindly request the public to disregard the misleading information that was shared by the Deputy RCC Jinja, to his Superiors and the media. The distortions are hereby corrected,” Enanga said.
