Written By |
Private Odeyeka Bernard alongside three other soldiers — Lance Corporal Isiko William, Private Niwasasira Denis, and Private Ogwari Charles — were convicted for failing to safeguard military assets
Search
By Our Reporter
The 5th Infantry Division Court Martial, presided over by Col. Peter Musherure, has sentenced Private Odeyeka Bernard, aged 31 and a member of the 103rd Battalion, to two years in prison for failing to protect war material, in violation of Section 120(1) (2), Cap 330 of the UPDF Act. Private Bernard admitted guilt, acknowledging his carelessness in handling the equipment. Alongside him, three other soldiers — Lance Corporal Isiko William, Private Niwasasira Denis, and Private Ogwari Charles — were similarly convicted for failing to safeguard military assets.
Col. Peter Musherure
The sentencing came after the soldiers violated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) laid down by Brig. Gen. Keith Katungi, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division. These SOPs require soldiers to carry their weapons and pouches at all times, a directive ignored by the convicted men.
In a related case, Col. Peter Musherure also remanded 14 civilians on charges of unlawful possession of arms, ammunition, and other military gear under Section 159(1)(c), Cap 330 of the UPDF Act, with most of them pleading guilty.
Torch Media Africa
