By Daily Monitor
A fresh wave of violence has hit Ofu village in Ukusijoni Sub-county, Adjumani District, after unknown gunmen dressed in army uniforms launched a deadly attack, killing one person and leaving several others injured.
The attack, which occurred on March 28, saw a group of over 30 assailants storm the area, targeting farmers in their gardens. The deceased, identified as Willison Musinguzi from Kyegegwa District, was killed on the spot.
Survivor Charles Drabe, who sustained severe injuries, recounted his ordeal from his hospital bed at Adjumani Hospital. "I was working in my garden when the attackers arrived. I saw them assaulting another person before they turned on me. As I tried to flee, they pursued me and inflicted deep cuts on my leg, head, and hands," Drabe narrated.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers were dressed in army uniforms and carried a mix of firearms, machetes, bows, and arrows. Joseph Agita, a resident, revealed that a day before the attack, a delegation from the Acholi sub-region visited the area, claiming they had come to settle on the land.
"The attackers spoke Acholi. We tried to engage them in dialogue, but they were unwilling to talk," Agita said.
Mr Mansur Butele, chairperson of the Sinyanya zone in Ofu village, confirmed the brutality of the attack. "The assailants used bows and arrows, and they beheaded Willison on the spot. Charles Drabe, who suffered deep wounds, was rushed to the hospital for treatment."
Adjumani Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mr Peter Taban confirmed the attack, stating that the assailants originated from Amuru District and launched a violent raid on local farmers. "They killed one farmer who was in his garden and severely injured another. The UPDF responded swiftly and repelled them. We are determined to bring those responsible to justice," he assured.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident as tensions escalate over long-standing land disputes in the region. Security reinforcements have been deployed to prevent further violence, particularly in Apaa areas, which have experienced similar tribal clashes in the past.
Residents have expressed growing concerns over their safety, urging the government to find a lasting solution to the persistent land conflicts between the Madi and Acholi communities. As the situation unfolds, security agencies remain on high alert to prevent further bloodshed.
