Military truck driver arrested over knocking priest dead on Christmas
The Rev. John Bosco Achilla, 56, of All Saints Parish Church in Abim, was allegedly knocked dead on his way to church to deliver his Christmas sermon at about 7:00am at Riamriam Cell in Kalakal Ward, Kiru town council.
The Potrait of Late Rev. John Boso Achilla. (Courtsey)
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ABIM - Christmas celebrations in Abim district turned tragic after an Anglican priest was knocked dead by a Uganda People’s Defence Forces vehicle on December 25, 2025.
The Rev. John Bosco Achilla, 56, of All Saints Parish Church in Abim, was allegedly knocked dead on his way to church to deliver his Christmas sermon at about 7:00am at Riamriam Cell in Kalakal Ward, Kiru town council.
Eyewitnesses told New Vision Online that the military truck, which was speeding, knocked the priest and did not stop after the crash. The reverand died on the spot.
The vehicle involved, registration number H4DF 2383, belongs to the 5th Infantry Division and was being driven by Lance Corporal Isaac Opio Onach.
Confirming the incident, Infantry division spokesperson Captain Ibrahim Sekitto said investigations have been launched and that Onach has been arrested and the vehicle handed over to Abim Police to aid ongoing inquiries.
Sekitto added that the army has extended condolences to the bereaved family, the Anglican Church, and the Abim community, assuring the public of transparency and accountability.
He said the army is working closely with Church leaders and the family to ensure a dignified burial.