19 Dec 2023 | 01:09 PM UTC
Uganda: Attack leaves at least 10 civilians dead in western Kamwenge District early Dec. 19
Suspected ADF militants kill at least ten civilians in western Kamwenge District, Uganda, early Dec. 19. Further attacks possible.
Suspected Islamic State (IS)-aligned Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) assailants attacked Kyabandara parish, Kamwenge District, at around 02:00 on Dec. 19. Police officials confirmed that attackers killed at least 10 civilians and looted shops in the area before fleeing towards Kibale National Park. There has been no reported claim of responsibility as of writing.
Increased security measures, including checkpoints, patrols, and random vehicle and baggage searches, are likely. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas with a heavy security presence and subject to security operations, including main highways and tourist park areas. Further attacks are possible in the near term.
Exercise caution near potential attack targets. Plan for possible localized disruptions near the shared border with the DRC and areas subject to increased security. Remain cooperative if stopped at a checkpoint. 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.
A recent uptick of attacks has been attributed to the ADF in western Uganda, including the following:
Assailants ambushed a tourist vehicle in Queen Elizabeth National Park, killing one British and one South African national and their Ugandan guide on Oct. 17.
On June 16, assailants stormed a school in Mpondwe in the same district, leaving at least 37 children dead.
This comes amid sustained operations and strikes carried out against ADF strongholds under the joint security operation (operation Shujja) with DRC ongoing since 2021. President Yoweri Museveni recently announced that around 200 ADF members were killed by airstrikes in DRC in September.
