Bundibugyo District | THE BLACK EXAMINER | More than 1,000 refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo sought safety in Bundibugyo District, western Uganda, yesterday, fleeing fresh attacks reportedly carried out by suspected rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The refugees recounted an assault on their villages by ADF rebels on Sunday night in the Kichanga area of Watalinga County in Beni District, DR Congo. The rebels allegedly caused casualties, prompting residents to escape.
Lt Col Alex Bright, the Resident District Commissioner of Bundibugyo, stated that at least 16 people were killed during the Sunday attack. The refugees are currently being temporarily housed at Butoogho Primary School and Butoogho Saira Church of Uganda in Bundibugyo.
“We received the latest information that at least 16 people have been killed. Many Congolese have sought refuge in Uganda, so we are planning to transfer them to the Bubukwanga transit camp here in Bundibugyo, where they can receive healthcare, food, shelter, and security,” he explained.
The RDC added that local council leaders and development partners have initiated the registration process for the refugees, guiding them to the Bubukwanga transit camp. It is hoped that the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) and their Congolese counterparts will effectively manage the situation.
Beatrice Lukulwabho, one of the refugees who sustained a head injury during the attack, recounted the events, describing how ADF rebels assaulted her village at around 11 pm on Sunday. Another refugee, 18-year-old Richard Ngonzi, revealed that after rebels fired bullets at their house, he and his parents fled to Uganda for safety.
“We had to run to Uganda because we know that there is peace. Some of my friends were killed, and I don’t know when we shall go back. The good thing is … we are safe,” said Ngonzi.
In the midst of the crisis, Francis Senyondo, the district focal person for refugees, reported that organizations such as Save the Children, Uganda Red Cross Society, and Medical Team International are providing assistance to the refugees.
