A Ugandan military spokesperson reported on Friday that nearly 100 Congolese police officers, who had crossed into Kanungu District in southwestern Uganda to escape fighting between M23 rebels and Congo’s military, were returned. The spokesperson confirmed that the officers’ national identities were verified and their entry into Uganda was granted as a humanitarian measure and in accordance with international law.
Major Kiconco Tabaro, a Ugandan military spokesperson, stated that the officers were returned with their weapons, ammunition, and other arms. He noted that refugees are still crossing the Ugandan border to flee the persistent violence in Eastern Congo. Since 2022, the M23 has been intensifying its insurgency in the conflict-ridden eastern region of Congo.
In June, the M23 took control of Kanyabayonga, a strategically important town due to its elevated position, which provides access to other regions in North Kivu Province, eastern Congo. Despite intensified military operations by Congo’s forces, including the deployment of drones and aircraft, the rebels have continued to extend their control.
The conflict in North Kivu has led to the displacement of over 1.7 million individuals, pushing the total number of displaced Congolese due to various conflicts to a historic 7.2 million, as reported by the UN.
