URA operation bullet kills 13-year-old boy in Busia
A UPDF soldier attached to the Uganda Revenue Authority enforcement team fired a shot that killed Dominic Wejuli, aged 13, inside his home.
A 13-year-old boy, Dominic Wejuli, died in Busia district on April 11, 2026, when a stray bullet struck him during a Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) operation. URA enforcement officers were attempting to seize suspected smuggled goods from Kenya stored at a shop in Buhobe trading centre, Bulumbi Sub-county.
Residents reportedly became rowdy and confronted the URA team, attempting to prevent the confiscation of goods. Moses Johnson Mugwe, Bukedi South Police spokesperson, stated that a UPDF soldier fired to disperse the crowd, and a bullet hit Wejuli inside his house. Eyewitness Muhammed Ntalo accused URA of using excessive force and endangering residents.
Harriet Nekesa, the deceased's sister, confirmed Wejuli was a primary four pupil. Resident David Wandera urged URA to review its procedures and prioritize civilian safety, calling for government intervention. Teacher David Ouma also appealed for justice for the bereaved family.
Why it mattersA 13-year-old boy was killed by a stray bullet during a URA operation to impound smuggled goods.