By Mike Rwothomio 

A suspected armed robber, identified as an active-duty South Sudan Army officer, was fatally neutralized during an exchange of fire with joint security forces in Yamba Village, Kojuwa Parish, Midigo Town Council, Yumbe District, West Nile Region.

The deceased was identified as CPL Daniel Agweli, male, aged 27 years, formerly listed as serving in the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) but confirmed as an active serving officer in the South Sudan Army, attached to Ajio Detachment, South Sudan.

According to SP Collins Asea, the North West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, the incident originated from a reported armed robbery on 19th December 2025 at approximately 15:00 hours. Victim Mr. Byansi Tom, a 30-year-old charcoal dealer, reported that his motorcycle (Senke), mobile phone, and cash amounting to 500,000 Ugandan shillings were robbed by an armed individual dressed in South Sudan Army uniform.

Security forces, led by Lt. Masendi Moris, OC Okupia UPDF Detachment, initiated immediate pursuit operations. Upon locating the suspect, he engaged personnel by opening fire, prompting a defensive response that resulted in the suspect being neutralized on the spot.

The scene was secured, processed, and documented. Evidence collection included recovery of:A South Sudan Army-issued SMG rifle (No. 56-16018828), three fully loaded magazines, an additional 13 bullets, 

the robbed motorcycle and mobile phone (SIM card absent).

All exhibits were secured and transferred to police custody for forensic handling.

The body was conveyed to Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examination. 

The deceased sustained gunshot wounds to the right arm and head.

One additional suspect, identified as Mawa Joseph, has been apprehended to assist with ongoing investigations.SP Asea stated: "Following this report, the security team immediately initiated a pursuit of the suspect. The suspect was located, but upon seeing the security personnel, he opened fire, resulting in the suspect being neutralized on the spot."

Joint security authorities are coordinating with South Sudanese counterparts to address cross-border implications as further investigations are ongoing, with updates to follow.

Police have issued a public security advisory urging heightened vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities during the festive season.

SP Collins Asea, North West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa, your number one grassroot information hub