Uganda army commander killed in battle with ADF rebels in DRC

KAMPALA, Uganda

Colonel David Byaruhanga (pictured), a senior officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has died from a Kampala hospital where he was being treated.

The 4th Infantry Division’s Public Information Officer, Captain David Kamya, confirmed the death, stating, "I have got a confirmation from our Division Commander (Major General Felix Busizoori) that death has taken our own senior officer, Col David Byaruhanga."

Byaruhanga, who commanded the 409 Brigade in Bondo, Arua District, passed away at Nakasero Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment.

Sources indicate he succumbed to bullet wounds sustained on duty, whose details remain undisclosed.

His death is a significant blow to the 4th Infantry Division and the entire UPDF fraternity.

Byaruhanga was instrumental in implementing Presidential Executive Order No. 3 to curb the illegal charcoal trade in Acholi sub-region.

He had also played a key role in pacifying Karamoja during operations against the Karacuna warriors.

The UPDF hailed Byaruhanga as a hero. "May his soul rest in everlasting peace," Captain Kamya said.