By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
NATIONAL
In a recent ruling, the 5th Infantry Division Court Martial convicted four soldiers for failing to protect military equipment, a violation of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act. Private Odeyeka Bernard, 31of the 103 Battalion, received a two-year imprisonment sentence for his negligence. Bernard pleaded guilty to the charges, acknowledging his carelessness in safeguarding war materials.
Three other soldiers, Lance Corporal Isiko William, Private Niwasasira Denis, and Private Ogwari Charles, also faced sentencing for the same offense. The court’s decision was prompted by the soldiers’ disregard for Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set by Brigadier General Keith Katungi, commander of the 5 Infantry Division. These directives require soldiers to carry their guns and ammunition at all times.
In addition to the soldiers’ convictions, Colonel Peter Musherure remanded 14 other civilians for unlawful possession of arms, ammunition, and other military equipment. Most of the civilians pleaded guilty to the charges, which violates Section 159(1) c of the UPDF Act.
