The death toll from Saturday’s attacks on security installations in Kasese District has risen to 19, security officials have confirmed.
The assaults, carried out by unknown assailants, targeted the Kasese Police Barracks and a police post in Rugendabara–Kikongo Town Council. During the attack, one police uniport was set ablaze and six police officers were injured.
Following the incidents, Kasese Resident District Commissioner Lt. Joe Walusimbi reported that nine of the attackers had been put out of action and 30 others arrested.
However, while addressing leaders from Busongora County North at a meeting held on Sunday at Hima Town Council headquarters, Rwenzori East Deputy Regional Police Commander, SSP Alex Muhumuza, revealed that the number of those killed had increased to 19.
“Those who attacked Rugendabara Police Post critically injured one of our officers. We managed to put five of them out of action at the scene. The joint security forces later pursued others who had fled, and the number of those neutralized now stands at 19,” SSP Muhumuza said.
He further noted that the number of suspects arrested had risen from 30 to 40, including some women.
Muhumuza appealed to local leaders, especially in Busongora County North, where most of the attackers are believed to originate, to cooperate with security agencies and sensitize their communities against engaging in subversive activities.
The Minister of State for National Guidance, Godfrey Baluku Kabbyanga, assured the public that government remains committed to bringing all perpetrators to justice.
He added that preliminary investigations indicate the attackers are not linked to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), but are largely natives of Busongora County North in Kasese, as well as parts of Bunyangabu and Bundibugyo districts.
