The High Court has sentenced a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier to 30 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to murder.
Private Okello Ronald, attached to the 5th Division Engineering Regiment, was convicted for the killing of Opio Geoffrey in Kole District.
According to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the incident occurred on June 29, 2024, in Abolonyero Village. Okello, who suspected his wife, Ejang Doris, of having an affair with the deceased, allegedly instructed her to lure Opio to their home.
Prosecution told court that upon arrival, Opio was attacked and killed before his body was dumped about 100 metres from the scene. The suspect later fled to Pader District, where he was arrested by police.
In a statement, the ODPP condemned the actions of the convict, noting that he had abused the trust placed in him as a member of the armed forces.
“The convict was a serving member of the armed forces entrusted with discipline, responsibility, and the lawful use of force strictly within the confines of duty. Instead, he grossly abused that position of trust,” the statement read.
The case was presided over by Lady Justice Sarah Birungi, who handed down the 30-year custodial sentence.
Prosecutors said the sentence serves as punishment and a deterrent, while reinforcing the principle that no individual, regardless of rank or position, is above the law.
