Security forces have arrested renegade Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) officer Peter Elwelu in Soroti City following allegations that he planned to destabilise the Teso sub-region.
Elwelu was arrested on the evening of Monday, November 2, 2026, after spending days on the run.
The acting director of Defence Public Information, Col Chris Magezi, confirmed the arrest, saying security forces had been pursuing Elwelu over suspected subversive activities.
"Renegade UPDF Officer Peter Elwelu has this evening been arrested by the security forces in Soroti City," Col Magezi said.
He accused Elwelu of involvement in activities aimed at disrupting security in Teso.
"Elwelu has been on the run over involvement in subversive activities and plans to destabilize Teso," he added.
According to Col Magezi, security forces recently recovered 15 guns, military uniforms and two pickup trucks allegedly linked to the officer.
"The security forces recently recovered 15 guns in his possession, military fatigues, and two pickup trucks," he said.
Col Magezi said the military would pursue criminal proceedings against Elwelu.
"He will be charged and prosecuted in the courts of law accordingly," he said.
Before Elwelu's arrest, the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba had revealed the arrest of Elwelu's driver and warned that anyone helping Elwelu escape arrest would face serious consequences.
The army chief praised State minister for Works Musa Ecweru for publicly condemning attempts to cause unrest in Teso. He also thanked residents who had supplied security agencies with information about Elwelu's alleged activities.
The CDF had earlier given Elwelu an ultimatum to surrender, warning that the army would declare him a rebel if he failed to comply. He also stripped of his senior military rank, demoting him to private.
