By Ronaldo Kalangi
The national army (UPDF) has deployed in western Uganda to prepare for attacks by rebels of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
According to ministry of Defence spokesperson, Brig Richard Karemire said Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has deployed along the Uganda-DR Congo border to prevent the Congo-based rebels from crossing to Uganda.
He also revealed that recruitment of Local Defence Unit militia to secure villages along the border is under way.
The UPDF Alpine Brigade, a specialised and French-trained unit based in the Rwenzori Mountains, is charged with carrying out reconnaissance over the mountain area.
In recent weeks, they have attacked and killed United Nations peacekeepers in Congo as well as dozens of civilians.
According to reports, ADF is now commanded by Seka Baluku who hails from Kasese district. He replaced leader Jamil Mukulu who is in prison for murder and terrorism.
The rebel group is apparently recruiting fighters from Uganda and Tanzania.
