Two Arrested in Arua City for Alleged Murder, Possession of Military Fatigue

Two people are being held at Arua City Central Police, on suspicion of killing a gold dealer near Odramachaku, along Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Jema Ismail 54 years old and Brian Dramani Abele 42 years of age, were arrested on Thursday, during an intelligence joint Security cordon and search operation in Oli- D Cell, Tanganyika Ward, Central Division in Arua City.  

According to 409 Brigade Commander, Lt Col Bainomugisha, items that were recovered during the operation such as a pair of uniforms belonging to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), three pairs of old uniforms belonging to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, a pouch with 02 magazines and a bullet, 01 UPDF T-Shirt with blood stains, ten million Shillings, a new numberless motorcycle numberless, and a pair of military shoes, among others.  

Lt. Col Bainomugisha said they have intensified the search for hardcore criminals targeting Arua city and the borderline with DRC.  

 

“Our intelligence-led operations to neutralize criminality in the city and borderline areas will remain in force throughout the festive season. This is intended to allow people and businessmen to enjoy Christmas and the New Year peacefully,” Col Bainomugisha said.  

However, Denis Ochama, the West Nile Regional Police Commander said he didn’t have the details of the arrest, as the suspects were still undergoing inquiries.

Arua's proximity to the DRC and South Sudan has made it a hotspot for criminal gangs, who often flee across borders after committing crimes. 

In March 2024, the police in Arua arrested 59 notorious gang members and seized 15 motorcycles involved in ride-along robberies. The criminals reportedly used motorcycles to snatch valuables from pedestrians or rob them at knifepoint.