Authorities in Kasese districts have urged residents to maintain vigilance to thwart criminal activities and bolster security measures around their homes and businesses this festive season.
The call comes after recent attacks on civilians in Kasese and Kamwenge districts by suspected rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). Lieutenant Joe Walusimbi, the Kasese Resident District Commissioner, emphasizes the importance of fostering trust and open communication between residents and security forces to ensure community safety. He urges places of worship to be vigilant, screening worshippers as a precautionary measure.
Walusimbi notes that the police and related agencies have escalated operations to address suspected criminal activities in the region. Luke Mbusa, the Police Spokesperson for Rwenzori East, advises partygoers and night travelers to carry proper identification.
He urges residents to report any sightings of unfamiliar individuals in their localities. Mbusa underscores the need for heightened security measures, stating, “For us, we have tightened our security.”
Recent incidents include an attack in Kamwenge district where suspected ADF rebels killed at least ten people. Additionally, in June, the group assaulted Mpondwe Lhubiriha Secondary School in Mpondwe, Kasese District, resulting in the deaths of over 40 individuals, predominantly students.
In October, two individuals were killed when ADF rebels ambushed a truck loaded with onions from Kisoro district headed to Mpondwe Lhubiriha border in Kasese District at Katojo junction along the Bwera Kinyamaseke-Kasese road.
On October 17th, 2023 suspected rebels attacked and killed three individuals in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kasese District, including a driver, a tour guide, and two tourists on a honeymoon. The attack occurred on Katwe Road in the park, and their vehicle was set ablaze.
Earlier this month, rebels raided Bududa Farm garden in Nkoko village, Kitswamba Sub-county of Kasese district, killing one person and abducting another.
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