UPDF informant in despair after arson attack
Otukutipo believes the fire was not an accident, but rather a deliberate act of intimidation orchestrated by those in collusion with the cattle rustlers he has worked to expose.
Kitgum: Gabriel Otukutipo, a 54-year-old UPDF informant and devoted father of 11, is reeling from the devastating impact of an arson attack that destroyed his home in Lenga Central village, Orom sub-county, Kitgum District.
The fire consumed everything Otukutipo owned, leaving him and his family with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Known for his bravery in alerting UPDF authorities about suspected Karamojong cattle rustlers, Otukutipo is highly respected across the Orom, Kiteny, and Orom East sub-counties.
Otukutipo believes the fire was not an accident, but rather a deliberate act of intimidation orchestrated by those in collusion with the cattle rustlers he has worked to expose.
The fire followed an incident on January 4, 2025, when Otukutipo intervened in a heated altercation between a soldier and a civilian in Lapeitak Village. He fears this may have made him a target for revenge.
Upon returning home after midnight, Otukutipo was met with the heartbreaking sight of his hut measuring 38 feet in radius reduced to ashes. The estimated total loss exceeds 100 million shillings.
Among the items destroyed were: 86 sacks of harvested sesame seeds, 128 bags of millet, essential to his family’s livelihood, recently purchased salon equipment worth 8.9 million shillings,15 million shillings in cash from the sale of three parcels of land in Orom Trading Centre and two mobile phones and a portion of the government cash support stored in the house.
Otukutipo, now facing the daunting task of providing shelter and stability for his large family of 14, has received some food assistance from a compassionate UPDF officer from the 5th Infantry.
However, the urgent need for community support to help rebuild their home is now critical.
The Kitgum police have opened an investigation into the arson under case number S.D. RE 04/01/2025, hoping to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The community is increasingly vulnerable due to the ongoing issue of cattle raiding in East Acholi. Reports suggest some local residents may be collaborating with the raiders, further heightening the dangers faced by the entire region.
Otukutipo’s family is in desperate need of assistance to restore normalcy and rebuild their lives. Community members are urged to come forward with any support they can offer.
For those looking to lend a helping hand or make contributions towards Otukutipo’s rebuilding efforts, please reach out to him directly at his registered phone numbers (0392003826 and 0777233404).
Your support can make a significant difference in restoring hope for this grieving family.
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