Uganda: Suspected Congolese gunmen abduct at least 16 fishermen at Lake Albert, near Kaiso, Hoima District, March 14

Event

Suspected DRC-based militiamen kidnapped at least 16 Ugandan fishermen at Lake Albert near Kaiso in the Hoima District on March 14. Initial reports indicate that the gunmen also stole boats, boat engines, and fishing net sets from the victims before crossing into DRC territory with them. Police have confirmed the kidnapping and are conducting search operations. It is unclear if there have been ransom requests.

Context

There is an elevated threat of kidnapping along Uganda's porous border with the DRC. The threat is particularly acute in the western parts of the Kigezi District, as well as the Bwinzi, Virunga, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls National Parks.