SFC soldier who shot 3 dead in Agago surrenders after week in hiding

by · The Observer
Private Bony Ameny

A soldier from the elite Special Forces Command (SFC) who fatally shot three people and critically injured three others in Paimol sub-county, Agago district, has surrendered to military authorities. 

Private Bony Ameny, 45, turned himself in on Wednesday from Te-Okiro cell, Wii-polo ward in Lai Muttu Town Council, where he had been hiding for over a week following the incident. The shooting, which took place on October 21 in Ngora East village, left three civilians dead at the scene and three others injured.

The victims were identified as Florence Ajalo, 16, Akidi Santina, 52, and her daughter, Sunday Apio, 19. Captain Edrin Mawanda, public information officer of the Fifth Infantry Division, confirmed Ameny's surrender and arrest. Ameny also handed over his killer weapon, an AK-47 assault rifle, and was taken into custody in Omia Pachua sub-county.

According to Mawanda, formal charges against Ameny are being prepared, with the Court Martial expected to convene soon in Paimol, Agago district, where the shootings occurred.

Ameny was one of the SFC soldiers deployed two years ago at Pakor Dungu detach in Parabongo sub-county, Agago district, to address cattle rustling by suspected Karimojong warriors.

George William Kilama, the chairperson of Lai Muttu Town Council, has called for a swift trial to ensure justice for the victims and their families. The three who lost their lives were laid to rest in their ancestral home in Ngora East village on October 23.

The army covered the burial expenses and provided Shs 5 million to each bereaved family, while the injured received Shs 3 million each. The injured, still recovering, include Charles Kidega, 45, and Janet Apio, 20, both of whom are receiving treatment at Dr. Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital in Kalongo Town Council.

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