Two lives were lost in a resurgence of tribal conflict between the Acholi community of Apaa township and the Madi people from the neighboring Adjumani district.
The latest outbreak of violence erupted on Sunday, February 18, in Kamjdin village, Kalachut Parish, Pekele sub-county, within Adjumani district. Reportedly, a group of approximately 30 Madi men, equipped with traditional weapons such as bows and arrows, machetes, hoes, and knives, launched an assault on the residence of an individual identified as Akekwa.
During the assault, several huts were set ablaze, and Akekwa was captured, forcibly stripped, and bound to a tree. The assailants then expanded their attack to neighboring homes, resulting in the destruction of 16 huts and the complete loss of all properties within them to the fire.
The violence escalated when one individual was injured, shot in the buttocks with an arrow during the incident.
In retaliation, the Acholi community mounted an offensive against the Madi in Eloku Village, located in Kalachut Sub County, Adjumani district, the following Monday morning, resulting in two fatalities. The individuals who lost their lives have been identified as Taku and Drani Were.
In response to the escalating violence, Capt Ahmad Hassan Kato, the spokesperson for the UPDF’s fourth division, announced that reinforcements had been deployed to the region. The military’s objective is to bolster security, monitor ongoing developments, and work towards de-escalating the situation to restore peace and stability.
Capt Kato issued a call for peace, urging both communities to renounce violence and collaborate closely with security forces by providing timely and accurate information. This cooperation is vital for the UPDF’s efforts to maintain security and reduce tensions in the affected area.
Capt Kato assured that the UPDF would maintain a security presence in and around Apaa until a comprehensive resolution is achieved by the government, emphasizing the military’s commitment to safeguarding the communities amidst this challenging period.
