Ugandan army tightens security in western region

The Ugandan army has tightened security in the west of the country following reports that the Allied Democratic Force (ADF) rebels were trying to cross to Uganda from neighboring the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The Uganda People's Defense Force (UPDF) Second Division spokesman Tabaro Kiconco was quoted by Daily Monitor on Friday saying the army has deployed more soldiers and intelligence operatives in the region.

He said the army has mounted surveillance operations on the Ugandan-DRC border.

"Our intelligence reports indicate that some ADF rebel remnants want to cross back to Uganda. They want to regroup but we shall not allow them to do that," he said.

The army last month confirmed the presence of ADF rebels in Kyenjojo, Bundibugyo and Kibaale districts. The army has, however, launched cordon and search operations and killed 82 rebels since March.

Tabaro said other intelligence reports indicated that recent clashes between the DRC army and militia groups in north Kivu province may cause some of the groups to enter Uganda.

"They (Militia groups) are dangerous to our national security. That is why we do not want them to enter our country," he said.

He said that the UPDF is on high alert to counter any threats from unfriendly forces.

Source: Xinhua