Highlights:
- Deadly Terrorist Assault Strikes Kasese’s Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Terrorist Attack Claims Lives of Tourists and Sparks Fear in Kasese
- Kasese Under Siege: ADF Rebels Target Tourists in National Park
In a distressing incident, a group of armed assailants believed to be members of the Allied Defense Forces (ADF) rebels launched a terrorist attack in Kasese district, Uganda. The attack occurred in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where tourists were on a trek with the Gorillas Wildlife Safari company. Reports indicate that the attackers, whose exact number remains unknown, targeted tourists and their drivers, leading to casualties and the destruction of vehicles.
Details of the Attack
The attackers ambushed the tourists, leading to fatalities among both foreign nationals and Ugandans. Additionally, they set two vehicles on fire, intensifying the chaos and destruction in the area. Gruesome images from the scene depict burning vehicles and lifeless bodies scattered on the ground.
Recent Incidents
This unfortunate event comes in the wake of another suspected ADF rebel attack on a truck transporting onions in Mpondwe, where two individuals lost their lives, and the truck was set ablaze. The ADF, a rebel group based in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, has previously launched attacks in Uganda, causing significant harm to the country’s citizens. Notably, these attacks have involved the brutal killing of innocent people and the placement of explosive devices that have claimed further lives.
One of the deadliest ADF attacks occurred in May when the group targeted a school in Mpondwe, resulting in the tragic loss of over 40 lives. Additionally, an unspecified number of students were abducted during the assault, leaving a lasting impact on the affected families and the entire community.
Response from Authorities
Fred Enanga, the Police Spokesperson, issued a statement regarding the recent terrorist attack in Queen Elizabeth National Park. He confirmed that three individuals, including two foreign tourists and one Ugandan, had lost their lives, and their safari vehicle had been destroyed in the attack. He further conveyed that joint security forces had promptly reacted upon receiving the information and were currently engaged in an intensive pursuit of the suspected ADF rebels. Enanga expressed the deepest condolences to the families of the victims and assured that more details about the incident would be provided in due course.
This tragic incident has not only shocked the nation but also raised concerns about the security situation in the region, as the ADF rebels continue to pose a serious threat to the safety and well-being of both Ugandans and foreign visitors. Authorities remain committed to addressing this threat and ensuring the safety of the people in affected areas.