Tension as armed congolese forces abduct UPDF officer in Pakwach

PAKWACH: Security forces have initiated a formal investigation into a cross-border security breach involving the abduction of a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier, Private Edwin Chelimo, aged 24, by eight armed personnel identified as members of the Congolese military. 

The incident occurred during a counter-illegal fishing operation on Lake Albert in the early hours of Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

Pte Chelimo, a resident of Dei Subcounty, Pakwach District, was part of a UPDF patrol unit led by Corporal Ssemugenyi Paul, based in Panyimur Town Council. 

On May 14, 2025, at approximately 06: 30 AM , the unit was conducting routine maritime security operations targeting unauthorized fishing activities in the Kabolwa and Bugoigoi areas.

According to a statement by West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Collins Asea, the UPDF team was ambushed by approximately eight Congolese military personnel armed with two light machine guns and AK-47 rifles during their return journey.

 Asea added that, the  assailants abducted Pte Chelimo, seizing his service weapon (loaded with 120 rounds of ammunition), a patrol boat, and its engine. 

The perpetrators subsequently withdrew across the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with the hostage.

” During their return journey to Deyi Landing Site, they encountered an armed ambush laid by approximately eight members of the Congo Army, equipped with two support weapons and AK-47 rifles.

During the attack, one of our soldiers, PTE Chelimo Edwin, aged 24 years, a resident of Deyi Parish, Deyi Subcounty, was abducted along with his firearm, comprising 120 rounds of ammunition, a boat, and an engine” Asea’s statement reads in part 

 The suspects subsequently retreated into the Congo side with the victim.

Security authorities have notified relevant stakeholders and the public regarding this incident in Dei Subcounty, Pakwach District. 

A case has been registered at Panyimur Police Station under SD Reference 03/14/05/2025.

Efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation and secure the safe release of Pte Chelimo. 

Multi-agency investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators and establish the circumstances of the incident.

 Authorities have called for heightened situational awareness and urged the public and regional partners to provide any information that could facilitate conflict resolution and the officer’s recovery.

This incident occurs amid ongoing joint UPDF and Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) peacekeeping operations aimed at stabilizing Eastern DRC, a region marred by persistent militia activities. 

The abduction underscores the complexities of cross-border security cooperation and the need for diplomatic engagement to address tensions and prevent escalation.