The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is mourning the death of Major General Deus Sande, a senior army officer and commander of the UPDF Armoured Division based at Kasijjagirwa Barracks in Masaka District.

According to the UPDF, Maj Gen Sande passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, February 11, 2026, while being transported from Masaka to Kampala.

The incident occurred along the Masaka–Kampala highway near Mpigi District.Preliminary information indicates that the senior officer was travelling to attend the funeral of his colleague, Major General Francis Takirwa, the former Deputy Commander of Land Forces, who died recently.

During the journey, Maj Gen Sande reportedly developed breathing complications and later collapsed. He was rushed to a nearby health facility, where medical teams attempted to resuscitate him, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

The UPDF officially confirmed his death through its spokesperson, Colonel Chris Magezi, who described the loss as a major blow to the force.

Col Magezi said the army was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of a dedicated and experienced officer who had served the country with commitment.Maj Gen Sande was a seasoned military commander who played a key role in overseeing the operations of the Armoured Division, one of the most strategic units within Uganda’s land forces.

His leadership was considered critical to the division’s operational readiness and national security responsibilities.

His death comes at a difficult moment for the UPDF, following closely on the passing of Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, highlighting a period of mourning within the top ranks of the military.

Funeral arrangements and further details are expected to be communicated by the UPDF in due course.