The 4th Division Court Martial seating in Gulu city, has convicted and sentenced RA/ 270603 Private (Pte) Okumu Owen to 52 years’ in prison for failing to protect war materials, contrary to UPDF Act Chapter 330.
The ruling was delivered on Friday.
Prosecution led by Captain Augustine Tumwebaze, informed court that on December 30, 2023, Pte Okumu Owen armed with SMG (serial number 56-48000707) and 120 rounds of ammunition abandoned his foot patrol duties in Gulu city.
He entered Buganda Pub, where he became intoxicated and fell asleep. By 3:00 am, he was found unconscious, with both the firearm and ammunition missing.
Despite efforts, neither the gun nor the 120 bullets have never been recovered to date.
“We pray for a stringent and deterrent sentence due to the gravity of the case,” Tumwebaze urged.
Court Chairman Colonel Innocent Tukashaba said due to the aggravated factors adduced in court, the loss of the gun and ammunition.
“We are yet to know the atrocities this gun has caused and whether it was intentional. Court has decided to sentence you RA/270603 Pte Okumu Owen to 52 years in government prison”, he said.
Major Peter Mugisa, the 4th Infantry Division Public Information Officer, said, Pte Okumu will serve his sentence in Gulu Main Government Prison.
Maj. Mugisa clarified that soldiers dismissed with disgrace are permanently barred from rejoining the army.
Soldier dismissed with disgrace
In the same court, RA/269610 Pte Asio Douglas, 29, was sentenced to dismissal with disgrace for desertion.
According to case details, Pte Asio obtained a two-week compassionate leave in January 2023 while serving at the 409 Brigade headquarters in Bondo, Arua district.
He failed to return and was declared AWOL (Absent Without Official Leave) in October 2023.
However, upon learning of a salary enhancement, he reappeared at his duty station on 23 June 2024.
While delivering the verdict, Col. Tukashaba warned soldiers that the UPDF values discipline, sacrifice, and patriotism above all.
“UPDF as an institution is not a free entry and exit,” he said.
Following his dismissal, Pte Asio was marched out of the 4th Division Quarter Guard by hundreds of soldiers, symbolising his removal from the force.
