Share this article

Uganda People’s Defence Forces are actively pursuing the perpetrators of a tragic incident at Queen Elizabeth National Park, where 3 people were killed in an attack suspected to have links with a rebel group. The UPDF vows to increase pressure on the attackers while urging vigilance from the public. Despite the tragedy, the rest of the country remains peaceful and open for tourism.

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have officially reported that they are actively pursuing individuals responsible for the reprehensible attack resulting in the tragic demise of two tourists within Queen Elizabeth National Park on the 17th of October, 2023.

Regrettably, the assailants also took the life of the tourist vehicle’s driver, subsequently setting the vehicle ablaze, an incident that transpired on the Katunguru-Mweya-Katwe road situated in Kasese district. It is important to highlight that this grievous incident occurred in proximity to the border shared by Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, approximately 360 kilometers away from Uganda’s capital, Kampala city.

Uganda’s military spokesperson, Mr. Felix Kulayigye, conveyed in an official statement released on Tuesday that the UPDF is diligently engaged in the pursuit of the perpetrators and is committed to holding them accountable for their heinous actions. It is the belief of the military that the individuals behind this isolated act of violence may have affiliations with the Allied Democratic Forces rebel organization, primarily operating within the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

As per Mr. Kulayigye, the “ADF has escalated its retaliatory actions following substantial damage inflicted upon them by our Air component within the Democratic Republic of Congo.” He further stated, “We are resolute in intensifying our efforts to suppress their activities and enhance the protection of our citizens from their terrorist actions,” as emphasized in UPDF press statement.

In a call to the populace, Mr. Kulayigye urged for increased vigilance and cooperation with “our armed forces, especially within the areas adjoining our borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo.”

Bashir Hangi, the spokesperson for the Uganda Wildlife Authority, disclosed that the identities of the deceased individuals, who included a Ugandan, a British citizen, and a South African, are being withheld for privacy and respect for the grieving families.

Notwithstanding this tragic incident, it is crucial to underscore that the remainder of the nation remains peaceful and continues to facilitate various activities, including tourism, without disruption.