Kisoro, Uganda | A tragic incident struck the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) when Private Samuel Kwesiga, 32, reportedly took his own life shortly after watching the English Premier League clash between Manchester United and Arsenal. The soldier, attached to Nyanamo Detach under the 35th Battalion, was found dead in his unipot at Nyanamo Town Council early Monday morning, August 18.
According to preliminary reports, Kwesiga had watched the match at around 6:00pm on Sunday, August 17, before returning to his detach at 9:00pm. He informed colleagues that he was tired, locked himself inside his unit, and moments later, a gunshot was heard by nearby residents. When fellow soldiers checked, they discovered him lying in a pool of blood.
Kigezi Regional Police spokesperson Elly Maate confirmed that a spent cartridge and the soldier’s rifle with four magazines were recovered at the scene. The body was taken to Kisoro Hospital mortuary for a postmortem before being handed over to UPDF command for burial arrangements. Police and UPDF officers continue investigations to determine the motive behind the suspected suicide.
The incident highlights the importance of mental health awareness and support within military ranks, emphasizing the need for timely intervention and counseling for personnel facing personal struggles. Authorities are urging soldiers and communities to seek help and remain vigilant to prevent such tragedies.