Security forces have arrested retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu in Soroti City, according to a statement published on X by UPDF Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi.
The announcement has drawn swift and divided responses online and across Teso, ranging from endorsement of the security operation to outright skepticism and sarcasm.
Col. Magezi stated that Elwelu, whom he described as a “renegade UPDF officer,” had been on the run over alleged involvement in subversive activities and plans to destabilize the Teso sub-region. He added that security forces recently recovered 15 firearms, military fatigues, and two pickup trucks linked to him, noting that he will be charged and prosecuted in courts of law. The post included a formal portrait of Elwelu in uniform and quickly circulated across social media platforms and local news outlets.
Reactions online were immediate and polarized, with many users treating the allegations with open contempt. One observer questioned the narrative, asking how a retired General could attempt to launch a rebellion with just 15 guns. Others responded with heavy sarcasm, while some expressed blunt criticism of the government’s security apparatus. Meanwhile, media accounts and supporters amplified the official statement, keeping the UPDF’s framing intact.
The arrest follows days of public accusations by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who labeled Elwelu a traitor, claimed to have stripped him of his ranks, and reported the recovery of arms alongside the arrest of his associates, including his driver.
Elwelu’s family has strongly rejected the rebellion allegations. His wife, Patricia Apolot, previously stated that her husband had left home to pray, denying any involvement in insurrection and emphasizing his commitment to a peaceful country. Relatives indicated that he had gone into hiding out of concern for his personal safety following security raids on properties linked to him in Kalaki District, which left local residents in fear.
Elwelu, who retired in 2025 after serving as Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Commander of Land Forces, is a native of Teso. He previously commanded the 2016 military operation at the Rwenzururu palace in Kasese. The latest developments have once again brought internal military dynamics into the spotlight, raising broader public questions regarding the allegations and the handling of a senior retired officer.
Authorities have not yet released an official charge sheet or confirmed his exact detention facility. Elwelu is expected to be produced before the General Court Martial as investigations continue.
The post Mixed Reactions as UPDF Announces Arrest of Retired Gen Peter Elwelu in Soroti appeared first on Watchdog Uganda.