By Bondry Kilenga
A soldier identified as Isaac Opio alias Onac, attached to 509, brigade in Abim District, has been arrested for knocking dead the archdeacon of Abim Archdeaconry, Rev. John Bosco Achilla with a UPDF vehicle, registration number H4DF 2383.
The crash occurred on Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, 2025, at around 7:00 a.m. in Akado, Kiru Town Council, about 10 kilometres from Abim Town.
Rev. Achilla aged 56, was riding his motorcycle to All Saints Church in Abim town where he was supposed to administer baptism, when he was knocked dead, casting a dark shadow over the Christmas season for the Christians and clergy of North Karamoja Diocese.
Capt. Ibrahim Sekitto, the Public Information Officer of the UPDF’s 5th Infantry Division said that Opio and the vehicle involved in the accident are held at Abim Central Police Station.
The UPDF according to Capt. Sekitto, a thorough investigation has been launched to ascertain the cause of the crash.
He assured the bereaved family, Church and the public that findings will be communicated once the investigations are complete.
“The driver was arrested and he is being at Abim Central Police Station and we have also constituted a team of UPDF officers to investigate the circumstance under which the crash happened and we appeal to the family, church and the public to be patient with the investigation progress”, said Capt. Sekitto
Capt. Sekitto, who expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolence to the bereaved and church community, said the UPDF will cater for burial expenses.
Rev Canon Richard Ongom, who served alongside the late Rev Achilla at All Saints Anglican Church in Abim Town, blamed the incident on reckless driving by the soldier whom he said was drunkard, a claim the UPDF denies.
He called on authorities to ensure the officer responsible is held accountable and justice is delivered.
Rev. Achilla served as the Education Secretary of the North Karamoja Diocese and was a curate to the Emeritus Bishop.
He also served at Christ the King Cathedral Parish in Kotido, as well as parishes in Kaabong, Kiru, and All Saints Church–Abim, where he served until his death.
The Rt. Rev. Simon Aisu Akol, Bishop of North Karamoja, described the death of Rev. Achilla as a very big loss not only to his family but also to the diocese, where he has been serving.
Bishop Aisu eulogized him as a very obedient and loyal servant of God, calling for calm among the bereaved family and the Christian community of All Saints Church during this trying moment.
According to the program, Rev. Achilla will be laid to rest on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.
