7 mistaken for ADF, shot dead in park

Security personnel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bushenyi district, have killed seven poachers mistaking them for ADF rebels, reports Raynel Kanyambu. A security source identified three of the dead as Augustine Magezi, Matsiko A, and Mweteise Elias all from Kichwamba in Bunyaruguru. The other four victims from Ryeru sub-county were not readily identified. They were reportedly shot dead at around 5.00 am on July 6 while skinning a hippo carcass. Another source said the bodies were later retrieved by the locals who buried them three days later. A combined UPDF and the Local Defence Unit (LDU) force, mounted the operation which killed the poachers. The LDU district commander, Capt. Kategaya confirmed the incident. He said they regard whoever they sight in the park an ADF rebel. He said residents around the park are aware that the place is restricted. The ADF rebels used to cross to the district from Kasese through the national park. The RDC, who is also the head of security, Mr Christopher Iga confirmed the incident but said he did not have details. Ends