In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal firearms, the Kiira Regional Police Command has recovered a rusty assault rifle loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition in Nawampanda parish, Butagaya sub-county, Jinja district.
The weapon, discovered on Saturday, September 20, had been hidden in a garden, raising concerns about possible links to past criminal activity in the region.
Discovery by Local Resident Sparks Swift Police Action
The firearm was unearthed by Monica Namugaya, a resident of Busowoko Central, as she was tending to her garden. Upon finding a suspicious sack, she immediately reported the discovery to Shaban Mazereba, the chairperson of veterans in the area, who then alerted the Butagaya Gombolola Internal Security Officer (GISO).
This prompt reporting triggered a rapid response from security agencies.
Joint Security Team Commended for Swift Operation
A joint security team, led by SSP Charles Nsaba, the Regional Police Commander (RPC) for Kiira, and Major Ishaka, Commanding Officer of the 129th Battalion in Njeru Municipality, swiftly moved in to secure the area and recover the firearm.
Police spokesperson for the region, SP James Mubi, confirmed the operation and praised the vigilance of both the local community and the responding officers.
“The recovered gun is believed to have been used to terrorize the Busoga sub-region and other parts of the country before being abandoned,” said SP Mubi.
He emphasized that the discovery is a testament to the power of community-police collaboration in combating crime.
Gun May Have Been Abandoned Long Ago
Security experts suggest the rusted state of the gun indicates it may have been hidden for a long time, possibly due to the original possessor being unable to retrieve it due to arrest, death, or other circumstances. The humid climate near Lake Victoria and the Nile may have accelerated the corrosion process.
“Like a snake, whether young or old, a gun is a gun,” said one expert. “Even in its rusty state, it remains a significant threat to public safety.”
Police: ‘Security is Everyone’s Responsibility’
SP Mubi extended gratitude to Monica Namugaya and other residents who played a crucial role in the recovery operation, noting that this level of public vigilance is vital in fighting crime.
“We appreciate the vigilant efforts of the people of Butagaya. Security is a shared responsibility,” he added.
Uganda’s Firearm Laws: What You Should Know
Uganda enforces strict firearm regulations under the Firearms (Amendment) Act of 2006, which aims to keep illegal weapons out of civilian hands:
Illegal possession of a firearm can lead to up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to 60 currency points, or both.
Offenses involving firearms — such as armed robbery, smuggling, or murder — carry even stiffer penalties.
The law exists to ensure public safety, protect vulnerable groups, and prevent the trafficking of weapons that could support crime or terrorism.
Call to Action from Police
The Kiira Regional Police Command is urging all residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious items or activities immediately.
“Through community cooperation, we can build a safer, more secure society,” said SSP Charles Nsaba.