Lira, Uganda — Police in Lira-City East Division are investigating a case of aggravated robbery after a Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier was attacked and his motorcycle stolen in the early hours of June 1, 2026, along the Soroti-Lira Highway.
The victim, Pte. Okello Tom, attached to Moyo Army Barracks but resident of Akitenino B' Village, Adyel Ward, reported that the incident occurred around 2:00 am at Gwengabara Cell. He was riding his red TVS motorcycle, registration number UFH 438Z valued at 6 million shillings, when he encountered two unknown men who had placed barriers across the road.
According to police, the suspects stopped the soldier, struck him on the head with sticks and clubs, and made off with the motorcycle. The victim was left bleeding at the scene before residents rushed him to a nearby clinic for first aid.
In a breakthrough, a police night patrol team operating along the highway intercepted a group of men pushing the same motorcycle at around 4:30 am. The suspects abandoned the bike and fled on foot. The motorcycle was later recovered and taken to Angwetangweta Police Station.
Patrick Jimmy Okema, SP and Police Spokesperson for North Kyoga Region, confirmed that a case has been registered at Lira-City East Division and investigations are underway.
"Our night patrol team were moving along the area as a preventative mechanism put in place by the area DPC," Okema said, adding that residents had identified Gwengabara as a known black spot for such attacks.
Detectives have since visited both scenes, recorded witness statements including from the victim, and issued a PF3 form for medical examination. The recovered motorcycle has been photographed and kept as evidence. Police are also reviewing CCTV footage from the area for possible leads on the suspects.
Authorities have urged motorists, especially those traveling at night along the Soroti-Lira Highway, to remain vigilant as the manhunt for the two attackers continues.
