BREAKING: Former Deputy CDF Peter Elwelu Arrested in Soroti, UPDF Confirms

What the report says

KAMPALA — The Uganda People’s Defence Forces says retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, a former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, has been arrested in Soroti City in connection with alleged subversive activity and claims of efforts to destabilise the Teso sub-region. The confirmation came from UPDF spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi, who said the arrest took place on Monday evening, November 2, 2026, and that Elwelu would be prosecuted.

According to the Watchdog Uganda report, the military has linked the case to wider security operations in Teso. Col. Magezi said authorities had recovered firearms, military uniforms and pickup trucks they believe are associated with Elwelu, though the article does not specify where he is being held or what charges he will face. The report also says the arrest follows earlier statements by CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who had said Elwelu was stripped of his ranks and that several former soldiers and a driver were also detained during the investigation.

The allegations have been disputed by Elwelu’s family, who reportedly denied claims that weapons were found at his home and said he had travelled to Kampala for prayer. The article notes that the case has drawn public attention because Elwelu previously held senior roles in the UPDF and later served as a presidential adviser on Teso and Karamoja affairs. More broadly, such cases typically move next into formal charging and court proceedings, but the article provides no further procedural details.