The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) has warned youth in Northern Uganda against using its ranks to intimidate the local population.
The army issued the warning following reports of abuse of its ranks by a section of youth and local musicians who have preferred to be called captains and generals.
Capt. Caesar Otim Olweny, the 4th Division Army Spokesperson says such individuals will be subjected to investigations for impersonation.
Capt. Olweny says, “The army will not tolerate such characters. Their conduct puts the forces in disrespect. Such acts are unlawful and anyone who admires the men in uniform should formally join instead abusing the army ranks by calling themselves ‘Generals’ and yet they are not commissioned army officers.”
The warning comes amid reports from rural areas that some young men are threatening families at return sites in Gulu and Nwoya district.
One of the youth was identified as ‘General Tuk’ who for the last one year is alleged to have raped women and deprived suspecting victims of their valuables.
‘General Tuk’ has been operating in the areas of Anaka in Nwoya district.
In March this year, Tuk asked for amnesty from Ms Beatrice Akello Okori, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and later got born again though continues to be a subject of investigation by the police.
Another ‘General’ is Batak, a former notorious student’s gang leader who has been in several run-ins with local politicians especially in Gulu district.
Batak is blamed for numerous violent strikes in secondary schools across Acholi, Lango and Bunyoro sub regions though he claims that he has denounced his rebellious way of life that has seen dozens of schools especially in Acholi sub region go into destructive strikes over unclear motives.
The act of illegally possessing military attire has several security implications and undermines the laws governing use of military attire.
The UPDF Act 7 of 2005 section 164 (1) (a) and (b) prohibits any person, without authority, from manufacturing, selling, offering or exposing for sale, wearing or using
