Rtd Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, former deputy Chief of Defence Forces
By Joseph Kiggundu
KAMPALA.The Uganda Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF) have said they have arrested controversial Lt. Gen (rtd) Peter Elwelu in Soroti City.
This followed a manhunt over his alleged involvement in subversive activities aimed at destabilising the Teso sub-region.
Lt. Gen. Elwelu, who previously served as the Deputy Commander of Land Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor, had reportedly been on the run as intelligence agencies intensified operations targeting suspected rebel operations and unauthorized military stockpiles in eastern Uganda. Security agencies revealed that a recent operation linked to the general led to the recovery of 15 firearms, military fatigues, and two pickup trucks.
“Renegade UPDF General Peter Elwelu has this evening been arrested by the security forces in Soroti City,” said Col. Chris Magezi, the Acting Director Defence Public Information (DDPI) for the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs on Monday .
“Lt. Gen. Elwelu has been on the run over involvement in subversive activities and plans to destabilize Teso. The security forces recently recovered 15 guns in his possession, military fatigues, and two pickup trucks. He will be charged and prosecuted in the courts of law accordingly.”he added
Lt .Gen. Elwelu’s arrest marks a dramatic downfall for one of the country’s most polarizing military figures.
He gained national and international prominence in November 2016 when he commanded the military raid on the Buhikira Palace of the Rwenzururu King Charles Wesley Mumbere in Kasese, an operation that resulted in the deaths of over 100 people.
Despite widespread criticism from human rights organizations over the Kasese incident, Elwelu was subsequently promoted through the ranks, eventually serving as Deputy Chief of Defence Forces before being transferred to presidential advisory roles.
Military sources indicate that Elwelu is currently being held at a secure facility as joint security teams finalize investigations ahead of his arraignment before the General Court Martial.