Security forces in Karamoja sub-region are hunting suspected cattle rustlers who attacked UPDF soldiers in the bush, shot one dead and fled with his weapon in Nabilatuk district. UPDF soldiers were attacked by suspected Matheniko militants Tuesday evening in Lobunariye village in Kosike and Nabilatuk sub-districts, where they had gone in search of stolen cows. Brigadier General Joseph Balikudembe, commander of the UPDF's 3rd Division, confirmed the incident, saying the soldiers heading in search of stolen cows were attacked by suspected militants, who killed one of them and then took his weapon. Balikudembe reported that combined security forces are in fierce pursuit of the criminals, and three of them have already been arrested in connection with an "operational fire contact." According to Balikudembe, the victim, identified as Private Bainomugisha Asaph, died as a result of gunshot wounds, as he was severely wounded by gunfire from the alleged armed cattle rustlers during an exchange of fire. For now, they can run, but they can't hide. We will pursue them and deal with them according to the law. I assure you that they will pay for it," Balikudembe warned.