The Uganda Wildlife Authority(UWA) has confirmed that another recruit has died during a fitness run for game rangers in Gulu city.
The deceased, 20-year-old Jacob Opiyo, was a resident of Kitgum District. Opiyo reportedly collapsed moments after completing the 5 Km run in the ongoing recruitment exercise.
He was pronounced dead at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital where he was rushed for emergency treatment on Wednesday evening.
Bashir Hangi, the UWA Communications Manager says the deceased became dizzy after successfully completing the 5 Km race and died in hospital.
Hangi has cautioned those interested in joining UWA not to commit themselves to go through the physical exercises if they have underlying ailments or are unfit.
"This is not a do or die affair. People with ailments should not come for this exercise, it's hectic and the actual training is more hectic,” said Hangi.
Hangi says applicants are always briefed and informed of the repercussions prior to their involvement in the physical drills. He, however, noted that many don’t open up about their conditions.
At least 627 applicants turned up for the ranger's recruitment at Kaunda grounds in Gulu City against the 48 slots UWA reserved for Acholi Sub-region.
This incident comes just after UWA announced that another three people had died during the same exercise in Kasese.
All three people collapsed and died Monday during a recruitment exercise at Queen Elizabeth National Park at Katunguru playground, Rubirizi District.
The deceased were identified as Jozbert Muhindo, a 23-year-old resident of Kasindi village in Nyakabingo Sub County in Kasese District; Rogers Bwambale, a 24-year-old resident of Kisolholho village in Karambi Sub County in Kasese District and Alex Bwire, a resident of Kamuli District.
Hangi confirmed the incident and said after collapsing, the three were rushed to Lugazi Health Center IV in Kasese District where they were pronounced dead.
