UPDF SOLDIER SENTENCED TO 35 YEAR IMPRISONMENT OVER MURDER.

By Innocent Atuganyira

www.mknewslink.com

In Hoima—

A Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier who shot and killed a man who was heading home in Mparo, Hoima East Division has been sentenced to 35 years in prison after the army court found him guilty of murder.

Solomon Baker Bakobe of the 11^th Battalion was Thursday convicted by the First Division Infantry Court Martial sitting in Hoima City on his own plea of guilty for the murder of Davis Bakanoba a resident of Mparo North Cell in Hoima east Division, Hoima City.

The court chairman, Col. Sam Mugyenyi who presided over the trial said Pt. Bakobe will serve his sentence at Hoima Government Prison.

Prosecution led by Captain Paul Rwabwogo told court that the UPDF officer allegedly murdered Davis Bakanoba a resident of Mparo North Cell in Hoima East Division, Hoima City.

Prosecution further heard that on 11th December 2020 while in Mparo North Cell, Bakobe was attacked by a group of six criminals who beat him and took his money and phone.

It is alleged that Bakobe, who was guarding road construction equipment belonging to China Railway No Five Group, went to his place of abode, put on his army uniform and picked his gun before he returned to the trading center to retaliate. However as he pursued the criminals, Bakobe fired bullets in the air hence a stray bullet hit Bakanoba on the head, killing him instantly. The deceased was not part of the thugs that attacked the army officer.

The court chairperson Col Mugyenyi acting on the evidence produced by prosecution convicted Bakobe to 35 years in jail to serve as an example to men in who misuse guns.

He advised the convict to appeal against the sentence within 14 days.

www.mknewslink.com a greater western Uganda news website
Email: wmuhwezi75@gmail.com
Tel: +256702680106