UPDF Calls for Calm as Troops Hunt Down Moroto Prison Escapees

At least one Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier has reportedly been shot dead in a fire exchange with inmates who escaped from Singila prison in Moroto District.

Authorities say three escapees have been killed while seven others have been recaptured.

Reports show about 219 prisoners grabbed guns from prison warders before they escaped and ran towards Mt Moroto.

The commissioner-general Uganda Prisons, Johnson Byabashaija said the inmates overpowered prison staff before accessing the armory that had about 15 riffles.

“There has been a break out from the Prison after inmates overpowering staff and accessing the armory where there were about 15 rifles. They are on the loose now. Heavy exchange of fire ensued. They have run towards Mt Moroto,” Mr Byabashaija said on Wednesday.

After the prison break, a joint operation between the police and UPDF was deployed to help give a chase to the escapees, and consequently, there was an exchange of live bullets.

“The operation by UPDF in pursuit of escapees from Singila prison in Moroto to re-arrest them and recover the stolen guns continues. The population, therefore, is advised to stay calm,” UPDF spokesperson, Brig. Flavia Byekwaso tweeted on Wednesday evening.

The latest reports indicate that the inmates are now running towards Kenya.