Suspected ADF Rebels Launch Deadly Attack in Kamwenge; 7 Killed Including Local Councillor

Date: December 19, 2023

Kamwenge District, Western Uganda

In a tragic turn of events, suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants launched a deadly attack in the Kyabandara township of Kamwenge district, western Uganda, claiming the lives of at least 7 individuals. The assault unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the community.

Eye-witnesses recounted the horror of the raid, which commenced at 1:00 am while residents were sleeping. Moses Tukundane, an area resident, shared, “We heard people screaming and calling for help.” The assailants targeted unsuspecting residents, leaving behind a scene of terror and chaos.

Among the victims was Beatrice, the Councillor of Kyabandara township, whose identity was confirmed by an eyewitness choosing to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals. The eyewitness stated, “She was killed by the attackers, and we have seen the body.”

The attack has prompted a swift response from local authorities, with the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) deploying forces to the area to apprehend the perpetrators and restore a sense of security. President Museveni, in a recent statement, revealed that UPDF had been actively pursuing a group of ADF fighters responsible for sporadic raids, emphasizing that these elements were fleeing from aerial attacks in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“In desperation, they have been sending small groups of infiltrators like the group of Njovu that killed the tourists. Njovu was injured and arrested, and three of his group were killed. About 7 of his group escaped, and the security forces are hunting them in the Kibaale National Park area,” President Museveni stated on December 3, 2023.

The ADF, led by figures like Kamusu and Abu Waqas, has been a persistent threat, prompting increased efforts by security forces to eliminate the insurgency. The situation remains fluid, and the community is on edge as authorities work to address the aftermath of this tragic incident. This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.