By Jonan Mumbere / Kasese Correspondent.
KASESE DISTRICT: Late on 6th October 2023 night, the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) engaged in a firefight with suspected ADF rebels who were attempting to cross into Uganda to access medical treatment from health centers in Mpondwe Lhuburiha town council.
Lt. Joe Walusimbi, the Kasese Resident District Commissioner, confirmed the incident, which occurred in Nyabugando I Cell in Mpondwe Lhuburiha town council between 23:00 and 00:00 hours. UPDF forces pursued and exchanged gunfire with the suspected ADF rebels.
According to Lt. Walusimbi, intelligence reports had indicated that these suspected rebels were seeking medical supplies and healthcare expertise from nearby health centers. In light of this, he urged residents to remain vigilant and collaborate with security forces and local leaders by sharing information regarding any suspicious activities in their areas.
Some residents, including Masika Rosemary and Masika Jane, expressed their gratitude for UPDF’s swift response to the incident. However, they also called upon the government to establish additional UPDF detachments in the area to bolster security.
Joseph Kato, another resident, highlighted a pressing issue – the lack of a reliable telecommunications network. He pointed out that this obstacle hinders their ability to promptly report security threats to the authorities. Kato appealed to the government to install network masts in the area, facilitating efficient information sharing between locals and security forces.
Responding to these concerns, Lt. Maate Magwara, the Kasese Deputy Resident District Commissioner, pledged to liaise with relevant government departments to address the telecommunications issue and construct network masts in the region.
However, Lt. Magwara issued a stern warning to the public, cautioning against collaboration with ADF rebels and emphasizing that security forces will take appropriate action to address such matters.
In related news, on June 16, 2023, suspected ADF militants attacked Mpondwe Community Secondary School in Mpondwe Lhuburiha town council, resulting in the tragic loss of 41 lives, including 38 students. The investigation into this horrific incident continues.