Two people were injured by gunfire during an operation involving Uganda Revenue Authority officers and Uganda People’s Defence Forces personnel in Kulikulinga Town Council, Yumbe District.
The incident occurred on September 24 during an operation targeting unregistered motorcycles and suspected smuggling activities, according to Nile Post.
Police said the incident happened at about 9 a.m. Preliminary information indicates that the URA team encountered a group of youths who allegedly attempted to disrupt the operation by throwing stones and other objects at the officers. During the confrontation, UPDF personnel reportedly fired shots in an attempt to disperse the crowd.
Two people, aged 21 and 16, were injured and taken to Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital for treatment. Their identities had not been released in the report. Police registered a case of unlawful wounding at Yumbe Police Station under reference number Yumbe GEF 019/2026.
The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting and determine what happened during the confrontation. Police said the two injured people and an eyewitness had recorded statements, while medical forms were issued as part of the investigation process.
The incident occurred in the context of enforcement work against activities that authorities say undermine revenue collection and compliance. URA operations can involve inspections of goods, vehicles and businesses, particularly where officers suspect tax evasion, smuggling or other violations. Such operations can become tense when enforcement teams encounter resistance.
At the same time, the circumstances surrounding the use of firearms are matters for investigation. The preliminary police account provides an initial description of the incident but does not by itself resolve questions about responsibility or whether the force used was lawful and proportionate.
Those issues should be assessed through the ongoing investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
Police have appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid interfering with lawful operations. The appeal comes as authorities continue gathering evidence from witnesses and the injured people.
Further findings could provide a clearer picture of how the confrontation developed and what led to the shooting.
For residents and businesses in Yumbe, the incident also highlights the tension that can arise around enforcement activities. Authorities need to carry out revenue and anti-smuggling operations, while communities expect such activities to be conducted safely and lawfully.
Clear communication between enforcement teams and local communities can be important in preventing confrontations.
The investigation will now be closely watched because it could establish the sequence of events, identify those involved and clarify the circumstances in which the firearms were discharged.
Until that process is complete, details beyond the confirmed preliminary information should be treated cautiously.
The Yumbe incident is one of the latest security and enforcement stories attracting attention in Uganda. As police continue with inquiries, the immediate priorities remain the treatment of the injured people, preservation of evidence and establishment of the facts surrounding the confrontation.