UPDF Kill 3 Armed Congolese Militiamen

Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) have shot dead three suspected Congolese militiamen during a fierce gun battle on Lake Albert in Kikuube District. The clash occurred over the weekend near Senjojo landing site in Buhuka Parish, Kyangwali Sub-county. 

Three other suspected militiamen were injured and arrested, and five firearms were recovered during the operation. Security authorities have yet to reveal the identities of the deceased and injured. According to information gathered by Uganda Radio Network (URN), the armed men, some dressed in Congolese military camouflage, crossed into Ugandan waters and held several local fishermen at gunpoint, demanding their boats, fishing nets, and engines.

The fishermen alerted the UPDF, prompting a rapid military response. Before soldiers could intervene, the suspected militiamen opened fire, triggering an exchange that left three dead. Godwin Angalia, the Kikuube Resident District Commissioner (RDC), confirmed the incident, noting no UPDF personnel were injured during the exchange.

He added that Ugandan security agencies are liaising with counterparts in Ituri Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, to trace the attackers’ origins. Angalia also cautioned fishermen to remain security-conscious while on the lake and to report any danger immediately.

Local fishermen expressed concern over repeated attacks. Bosco Onega, a fisherman at Senjojo landing site, said they frequently lose gear, including boats, engines, nets, and hooks, to armed raiders.

Wilberforce Katusiime applauded the UPDF for swift action but demanded intensified operations to protect fishermen, fearing DRC militiamen may retaliate.

Fred Asiimwe said much more needs to be done to combat escalating attacks, adding that Congolese militias have effectively taken control of parts of the lake.

Attacks by suspected DRC militiamen on Ugandan fishermen in Lake Albert have persisted since 2018. In April 2020, UPDF shot dead two suspected Congolese militiamen near Kaiso landing site, Buseruka Sub-county, Hoima District. Five others were arrested, and three AK-47 rifles with 47 rounds were recovered.