As you are all aware, yesterday 10.07.2023, the UPDF, under its operation Shuja and in coordination with the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), killed one of the most notorious ADF commander, identified as Lubangakene, with 3 of his fighters, during a counter terrorism operation, in Mwalika valley in North Kivu Province the Eastern DRC. At least guns were recovered, including a PMK machine gun. The ADF commander was one of the most wanted ADF terrorist for the many atrocities against innocent civilians, including children in the DRC and in Uganda. The operation is a testament of the Joint UPDF/FARDC capability and reach, to take out terrorists, no matter where they try to hide. We would like to applaud them for a job well done.
The fight against ADF, both externally and internally still continues as their remnants continue to kill, main and terrorise communities in the Eastern DRC and along the Western Ugandan boarder. In Uganda, the joint Police and UPDF cordon and search operation was carried out in Kisege village, Kamgutu sub-county in Ntoroko District, where 34 suspected wrong persons, not known by local leaders, and without substantive identification documents, were arrested.
As the Joint Security Agencies, we continue to conduct intensified patrols especially along ungazetted entry points in the Districts of Ntoroko, Bundibugyo. Kasese, Kibaale and Kabarole. This follows incidents where suspicious looking strangers were sighted in Nyabweya on 28.06.2023, and in Muhwezi village, Burambira parish in Kabarole District.
We are also investigating a threatening letter purportedly written and signed by an ADF commander. The letter written in Kishwahili, allegedly had plans to attack Kaswa trading centre, Tamteco tea factory, Mpanga tea factory and Kiamara primary school. Such terror letters have an implied threat and can be very scary to the communities. We want to assure the respective communities about the presence and visibility of our Joint Security Teams. And for them to know that anonymous threat, can be from fearmongers within the community.
We have meanwhile, posted a sample of the anonymous letter, for residents in Busoro sub-county to take a look at it. If there is anyone who recognizes the writing style, we ask them to inform the nearest Police or Security Agency. All managers of Tea factories around Busoro sub-county, school administrators and the community, have been mobilised to remain vigilant. We ask that you reach out to the nearest security agency, if you see something suspicious or threatening.
SCP Enanga Fred
Police Spokesperson
10th July 2023
