Uganda: Officials likely maintain increased security at border areas following attack in Kasese District, Western Region, Oct. 13

Event

As of Oct. 16, security operations are likely ongoing at border areas following an attack in the Kasese District, Western Region, Oct. 13. Assailants ambushed a commercial truck in the Katojo area, close to the DRC border, leaving at least two civilians dead. The Islamic State (IS)-aligned Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Increased security measures, such as checkpoints and searches of vehicles and personnel, are more likely at border areas with DRC, along major roads, including the A109. Localized transport delays are possible in the area, including at the border crossings.

Context

Officials attributed an attack against a school in Mpondwe in the same district on June 16 to ADF militants; the attack left at least 37 children dead. An unspecified number of people also remain unaccounted for as of writing despite rescue operations that enabled the release of some children in the aftermath of the attack.

Uganda faces a threat nationwide from terrorist groups such as the ADF. Although originally a Ugandan-based group, the ADF operates mainly in the DRC's North Kivu and Ituri provinces, where it has been implicated in dozens of attacks, including bombings. The ADF was also blamed for suicide bombings in Kampala in late 2021. In the aftermath, Uganda launched a joint security operation (operation Shujja) with DRC at border areas against ADF strongholds; hundreds of militants were reportedly killed since 2021. Further attacks remain possible nationwide, notably in main urban centers and areas bordering the DRC.

Advice

Exercise caution near potential attack targets, including markets, security installations, and other crowded or sensitive locations. Plan for possible localized disruptions proximate to DRC border areas. Remain cooperative if stopped for checks. Foreign nationals should always carry their passports, as well as register and maintain contact with their diplomatic missions. Heed all official security and transport advisories.