Uganda Bolsters Border Security to Prevent Acts of Terrorism
In response to growing concerns over terrorism, security agencies have bolstered their presence at major checkpoints in Kisoro District and various border points. These measures aim to prevent acts of terrorism and apprehend individuals with criminal intent.
At the Kanaba main checkpoint, situated near the Echuya Forest Reserve and adjacent to Kanaba Trading Centre, passengers faced thorough screening procedures. This security enhancement was prompted by the need to safeguard against terrorism and to apprehend individuals with nefarious intentions, according to Mr. Robert Tukamuhebwa, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Kisoro.
The screening initiative encompasses all border entries, including porous border crossings, as well as official border posts shared with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The decision to intensify security follows recent tragic events in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where suspected assailants belonging to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group killed two foreign tourists and their tour guide.
To address a recurring issue of passengers evading screening by pretending to shop at the checkpoints, security operatives are now conducting screenings from inside the vehicles. This proactive approach is intended to ensure that no passengers escape scrutiny, according to Mr. Tukamuhebwa.
Individuals lacking proper travel documents are subject to interrogation by the security team to determine their identity and the purpose of their journey to Kisoro.
Last week, the community liaison officer at Kisoro Central Police Station, Mr. Boaz Arineitwe, urged individuals planning to visit Kisoro to carry their national identity cards or other valid travel documents.
Effective from October 26, the Joint Operations Committee led by the Kisoro District Police Commander decided that all passengers traveling to and from Kisoro Town must possess either their national identity cards or a stamped letter from their respective LC1 chairman. Passengers are now required to remain in their vehicles during the screening process, with those lacking identification being asked to disembark.
While the intensified security measures at the Kanaba main checkpoint are welcomed for enhancing safety, concerns have been raised about potential negative impacts on local businesses. Mr. Fred Mugisha, Chairman of the Traders Association at Kanaba Trading Centre, expressed worry that screening passengers from inside their vehicles may slow down their business activities.
Similar security measures are also being implemented on the main roads leading to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi national parks, as confirmed by the Kanungu Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Ambrose Mwesigye.
