Security forces have arrested retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu in Soroti City following a manhunt over alleged involvement in subversive activities aimed at destabilising the Teso sub-region.

The arrest was confirmed on Monday evening, 2 November 2026, by UPDF Acting Director of Defence Public Information Col Chris Magezi.

“Renegade UPDF Officer Peter Elwelu has this evening been arrested by the security forces in Soroti City. Elwelu has been on the run over involvement in subversive activities and plans to destabilize Teso,” Magezi said.

According to the military, security forces recently recovered 15 firearms, military fatigues and two pickup trucks allegedly linked to the former senior commander during operations conducted over the past several days. Magezi stated that Elwelu will be charged and prosecuted in the courts of law.

The arrest comes after days of heightened tension in which Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly accused Elwelu of stockpiling weapons, organising activities against the government and treachery. Gen Muhoozi had earlier announced the recovery of additional firearms and ammunition from different locations, the arrest of Elwelu’s driver, and the seizure of the vehicle he had last used. He had also stripped Elwelu of his military ranks, referring to him as a private.

Elwelu, a former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, is a well-known figure in the UPDF. He previously commanded operations in various regions and rose to one of the highest positions in the army before his retirement.

The development has drawn mixed reactions online, with some recalling past military operations associated with his command, while others question the timing and nature of the allegations. At the time of publication, Elwelu’s family or legal representatives had not issued a detailed public response to the latest charges.

Authorities have indicated that formal charges will follow as investigations continue.