Police in the Albertine region have heightened security measures along the Uganda –Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) borders, tasking residents and fishermen along the shores to exercise vigilance and remote security in order to curb external border attacks.

This follows a security breach on May 13, 2025, when two suspected DRC militia sneaked into Uganda but were successfully neutralized by the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers near Senjojo landing site, Buhuka Parish, Kyangwali Sub –county.

This military altercation caused widespread concern among residents and local leaders in Kikuube district prompting a swift call on the government to intensify security deployments on the Albert landing sites.

Fostino Okwera, a fisherman shared that he feared that after the neutralization of the two suspected Congolese militias, other militias from Congo might attack in retaliation.

“We request for more surveillance and patrols along the border and lake shores incase other Congolese militias might retaliate by attacking fishermen on the lake,” Okwera said.

Regina Ngamita, Buhuka parish LCII Chairperson reechoed Okwera’s statement adding that residents and fishermen live in fear of the suspected Congolese militia.

Julius Hakiza, the spokesperson Albertine region called for calm among residents and advised the fishermen to always be on the lookout.

“Fishermen must be vigilant while on the lake and report any suspicious persons to security personnel for immediate action to be taken,” Hakiza said.

On May 5, 2025, Uganda and the DRC signed a cross border peace agreement in Mahagi Territory, Eastern Ituri Province to strengthen border security and cooperation.

The deal targets cross-border crimes like illegal trafficking, armed robbery, and animal theft which have affected trade and security along the border districts.