The army is pursuing remnants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) that are suspected to have murdered close to 10 people in Kamwenge district on Monday night.

Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye confirmed that an operation is underway to apprehend the assailants.

“The army has been deployed in the district to hunt for the attackers,” Kulayigye said. The army spokesperson by press time stated that he was yet to ascertain the actual number of people who have died but sources put the fatalities at 10.

He said the remnants were searching for food and in the process killed the locals including the area woman councillor and LC1 chairperson.

Kulayigye said the assailants, who attacked Kamwenge were a group of ADF, whose commander was arrested last week and two killed in Kibale Forest.

On December 5, 2023, the UPDF arrested a top commander of the ADF known as Kamusi, after he sustained injuries while two of his close bodyguards were killed in Kibale Forest.

The commander was arrested shortly after attacking an elderly woman, Betty Biira, in Kanyatete village, Kasese district and hacked her to death, injuring her attendant, Harrison Masereka, 14.

“The Gombolola Internal Security Officer is estimating between five and 10 people dead in the attack, but I'm yet to confirm the number since our forces have been deployed,” Kulayigye said.

Security heightened

The army spokesperson said security has been heightened in Kamwenge following the Monday night raid.

Kulayigye, therefore, appealed to the locals to be vigilant as pursuit of the remnants is still ongoing.

“I appeal to people to be vigilant because the terrorists are trying to make a point during the festive season. So, as we celebrate Christmas, be on the lookout and mind about a person who is in your area and collaborate with security agencies so that they protect you are you enjoy your Christmas season,” he said.

Eng. Cuthbert Abigaba Mirembe, the Member of Parliament for Kibale County said: “Over five people (exact number not established yet) have reportedly been killed including a female parish councillor.

“This confirms the rebels have infiltrated into our area and calls for increased vigilance by all of us. Let's identify and report any suspects we come across in our respective areas. I salute our security team in the district for responding fast and deploying appropriately. We hope to succeed over the enemy,” Abigaba said.

He said it was a challenging situation in and around Kyabandara.

“I call upon our people to remain firm as security hunts for these bad elements. My most sincere condolences to the families that have lost their dear ones. May the souls of our friends rest in peace,” Abigaba added.