Kamwenge, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces reported the elimination of an Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terror group commander connected to two recent attacks in Kamwenge District. The undisclosed commander met his end in Kibale National Park, carrying a PK gun, two Improvised Explosive Devices, and ammunition.
A splinter group believed to consist of 5-8 ADF members executed two attacks in Kamwenge within a week. The latest assault occurred on December 25, resulting in the burning of a house in Nyabitusi I Zone, Busingye Parish, Kamwenge sub-county. Tragically, a 72-year-old woman and her two grandchildren perished in the flames, while two others narrowly escaped.
Vincent Twesige, the Rwenzori East Police spokesperson, disclosed that around 10:00 pm, four assailants, two armed with rifles, invaded Nyabitusi zone. They set fire to a house, looted 10 goats, and an unspecified amount of beans before burning the occupants. Preliminary information suggested an earlier attack on Rev. George Bwajojo’s cattle kraal, where the assailants attempted to take 50 heads of cattle.
In a related move, Defence Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye announced the UPDF’s recruitment of 1,440 Local Defence Unit (LDU) personnel across various districts, including Kyenjojo, Kitagwenda, Bunyangabu, Kamwenge, Kyegegwa, and Kasese. This initiative, following President Yoweri Museveni’s directive, aims to bolster local defenses against ADF threats. The recruitment process commenced on December 27, 2023.
UPDATE
In a recent UPDF operation in Kamwenge District, two alleged ADF militants were killed. This follows two separate attacks in the past week, resulting in at least 13 casualties. Kamusu, identified as the group’s commander, was among those killed, while others sustained injuries. The forces encountered Kamusu armed with a machine gun and two other firearms.
The UPDF is actively pursuing ADF rebels within Kibale National Park, prompting residents to evacuate. Despite the challenges, the community expressed relief at the news of the rebels’ demise. A funeral service was held for three victims: Adrine Ngwabizi (72), Amon Niwalinda (5), and Mathias Byamukama (13).
Recruitment Of Local Defence Personnel In Greater Rwenzori Sub-region And Areas Surrounding Kibale National Park https://t.co/SEewOMun4d
— Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (@MODVA_UPDF) December 26, 2023
