Museveni Links Rwenzori Attacks to Congo-Based Assailants, Vows Uganda’s Peace Will Not Be Shaken

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has revealed that the group of assailants behind last week’s deadly and well-coordinated attacks in Uganda’s Rwenzori sub-region crossed into the country from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The shocking attacks, which took place on November 1, 2025, targeted several Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) detachments and police stations spread across the mountainous Rwenzori area — a region that has occasionally experienced security incidents due to its proximity to the volatile eastern DRC.

According to security sources, the assailants, believed to be part of an organized armed group, struck simultaneously in different parts of the region, attempting to destabilize security installations and instill fear among residents.

Coordinated Raids Across the Region

In Rwenzori West, the attackers launched strikes in Bunyangabu, Bundibugyo, and Fort Portal City—particularly around Nyakasura School and Canon Apollo Core PTC—before extending their assault to some parts of Kabarole District.

Meanwhile, in Rwenzori East, heavily armed men carrying guns, machetes, and even catapults staged daring attacks on Kasese Police Barracks and Rugendabara Police Station in Kasese District. They also targeted UPDF positions in Malindi and Kakukha, killing several people and leaving others injured in the violent onslaught.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunfire throughout the night as residents fled their homes for safety. Security reinforcements were quickly deployed, and within hours, the situation was brought under control.

### Swift Security Response

Security agencies responded decisively. Several of the attackers were put “out of action,” while others were arrested and are currently assisting with investigations. Joint operations involving the UPDF, Uganda Police, and intelligence services are ongoing to pursue the remaining suspects believed to be hiding in the border areas.

During a campaign stop in Soroti on Tuesday, President Museveni directly addressed the attacks, confirming that the armed groups had crossed into Uganda from the DRC.

“A few days ago, some groups came from Congo…. They were all wiped out, finished in one day. You pick a gun in Uganda; you are dead if you are not on the side of the government,” Museveni warned.

The President’s statement reflected both confidence in the country’s defense capabilities and a stern message to anyone considering destabilizing Uganda’s peace.

Suspected Mastermind Neutralized

Museveni’s comments came shortly after security forces gunned down the alleged mastermind of the attacks, Asuman Muganzi, during an operation in Bundibugyo District.

According to Bundibugyo Deputy RDC Albert Kaliruga, Muganzi was killed on Tuesday after resisting arrest at his shrine in Kakuka Parish, where he had been hiding for several days.

“Security forces tracked him down to his shrine, which he had turned into a recruitment and indoctrination center for the attackers,” Kaliruga said.

Sources indicate that Muganzi, previously known in the area as a traditional healer, had secretly transformed his shrine into a hub for radicalization and recruitment. Investigations suggest he was mobilizing and training the armed group that later executed the coordinated attacks on the security forces.

Uganda’s Peace ‘Firmly Secured’

President Museveni reiterated that Uganda’s peace and stability remain unshaken despite the attacks, emphasizing the strength of the country’s security apparatus.

“We have built very strong security forces — the army, police, intelligence, and prisons. No one can disturb Uganda’s peace,” he said.

The President praised the vigilance of the security forces for their rapid response, noting that Uganda’s security institutions are capable of neutralizing any threat to national stability.

As the UPDF and Police intensify operations in the Rwenzori sub-region and along the Uganda–DRC border, authorities have vowed to eliminate all remaining attackers and dismantle any networks aiding them.

Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious individuals or activities in their communities.

The government has also reassured citizens that Uganda’s borders are under close surveillance and that peace and order will continue to prevail across the country.