Wife of Retired Lt Gen Elwelu Alleges Guns Were Planted During Security Raid

The wife of retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu has come forward to dispute claims by security authorities that firearms and ammunition were discovered at their home in Soroti district during a military operation. Patricia Apolot maintained that the weapons showcased by security officials were deliberately planted by operatives who conducted a search on the premises.

The controversy began when Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba shared on social media that security forces had allegedly recovered a cache of arms from one of the retired general’s properties in the Teso subregion. The online posts warned Elwelu to surrender or face being classified as a rebel.

Detailing the events of the raid, Apolot explained that a fleet of vehicles arrived at their home in Awoja Parish during the evening hours. According to her, operatives questioned her regarding her husband’s whereabouts, noting that Elwelu had left for prayers weeks prior and remained out of contact due to his usual period of isolation during spiritual retreats.

During the search, Apolot stated that security personnel thoroughly inspected the main house, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and drawers, without finding any illicit items. She noted that officers grew particularly suspicious of a locked room containing construction funds, yet that search also failed to yield any firearms. Apolot alleged that soldiers left behind in the kitchen subsequently placed weapons there to fabricate evidence.

Furthermore, Apolot addressed reports regarding her husband’s security detail, explaining that official rifles belonging to guards had previously been stored securely in an armoury. She expressed deep pain over allegations portraying her husband as a criminal plotting against the government, emphasizing his long-standing loyalty and service.

Local residents and family members continue to seek clarity regarding the whereabouts and official status of the retired general as the situation unfolds. Read more about this story at The Observer.