Security forces have confirmed the arrest of retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu in Soroti City after a manhunt linked to alleged plans to destabilize the Teso sub-region.

According to the army, the controversial former Deputy Commander of Land Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor had been on the run as intelligence teams stepped up operations against suspected rebel activities and illegal military stockpiles in eastern Uganda.

The arrest was announced Monday evening by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi.

“Renegade UPDF General Peter Elwelu has this evening been arrested by the security forces in Soroti City,” Col. Magezi said in a statement.

He said Elwelu is wanted for involvement in subversive activities aimed at destabilizing Teso, adding that security recently recovered 15 guns, military uniforms and two pickup trucks linked to him.

“He will be charged and prosecuted in the courts of law accordingly,” Magezi added.

Security sources say a recent operation connected to the general led to the recovery of 15 firearms, UPDF fatigues and two vehicles. Elwelu is currently being held in a secure facility as joint security teams conclude investigations before he is arraigned before the General Court Martial.

His arrest marks a major fall for one of Uganda’s most polarizing military figures.

Elwelu rose to national and international prominence in November 2016 when he led the UPDF raid on the Buhikira Palace of Rwenzururu King Charles Wesley Mumbere in Kasese, an operation in which more than 100 people were killed.

Despite condemnation from human rights groups over the Kasese raid, Elwelu continued to rise through the army ranks, later serving as Deputy Chief of Defence Forces before being moved to a presidential advisory role.