A Ugandan soldier has been abducted in a cross-border raid believed to have been carried out by armed personnel from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed.
The incident occurred in Deyi Subcounty, located in Pakwach District, near the northern shores of Lake Albert, an area increasingly troubled by cross-border security tensions.
According to UPDF spokespersons, the abduction happened during a routine patrol operation aimed at curbing illegal fishing activities in the Kabolwa and Bugoigo areas. The patrol team, originating from Panyimur Town Council, was unexpectedly ambushed by a group of approximately eight heavily armed men believed to be soldiers from the Congolese military.
The attackers reportedly struck near the Deyi Landing Site, overpowering the UPDF patrol team led by Corporal Ssemugenyi Paul. During the ambush, Private Edwin Chelimo, aged 24 and a resident of Deyi Parish, was captured by the assailants.
In addition to abducting the soldier, the attackers seized a boat, an engine, and Chelimo’s service rifle containing 120 rounds of ammunition. Eyewitnesses and security officials say the assailants then retreated into Congolese territory with the abducted soldier and stolen items.
Local police have opened a formal investigation at Panyimur Police Station. A joint security operation involving the UPDF and Ugandan police is underway, aimed at securing the soldier’s safe return and pursuing the individuals behind the attack.
Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, spokesperson for the UPDF, described the incident as “a deeply troubling provocation” and stated that Uganda is engaging diplomatic channels to address the situation with authorities in the DRC.
“This type of aggression jeopardises the peace and security efforts between our two countries,” he said, adding that the UPDF remains committed to defending Uganda’s sovereignty and protecting its people.
Security analysts warn that the porous nature of the Uganda–DRC border continues to be a hotspot for smuggling, armed incursions, and criminal activities. Residents in the region have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to local authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue a formal statement, but officials indicate that bilateral discussions may be held to resolve the matter and prevent future incidents.
This cross-border abduction is the latest in a series of tensions that highlight the fragile security environment along Uganda’s western frontier.
