The UPDF has assured locals of security and safety after the Saturday morning coordinated attacks by panga-wielding assailants in Rwenzori region.
The attacks, which happened on November 1, 2025, targeted police and military positions in Bundibugyo, Kasese and Fort Portal.
Security posts hit included Kasese and Lugendabara Police posts in Kasese District, UPDF positions at Malindi and Kakuka in Bundibugyo, and Canon Apollo School in Fort Portal City.
The assailants armed with pangas and catapults launched the attacks in the wee hours of Saturday morning as they sought to catch security unaware but were thwarted and several of them killed while others were captured alive.
UPDF spokesperson Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye, said joint security forces responded swiftly and successfully repelled the attackers.
“Our forces, in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force, responded swiftly and decisively to neutralize the threat. Several attackers were subdued, and operations are ongoing to apprehend those who fled,” Gen Kulayigye stated.
“Unfortunately, the attackers killed one civilian woman in Malindi and one soldier was killed in action,” he said.
This website has learnt that over 15 assailants were killed in the simultaneous attacks that targeted security installations as well as a teacher training college.
Gen Kulayigye hailed the discipline and courage of officers on duty during the attack.
“We commend the bravery and professionalism of our personnel who acted with restraint and precision to protect lives and property,” he noted.
He said security agencies have launched investigations to establish the identity, motive and possible external support behind the attackers. The army has reinforced deployment in the region to ensure stability and prevent further threats.
“The UPDF condemns any attempt to destabilize the prevailing peace in the country and assures all Ugandans—especially residents of Bundibugyo, Kasese, and Fort Portal—that the situation is under control,” Gen Kulayigye emphasized, urging the public to remain calm and vigilant.
He encouraged the public to remain alert and cooperate with security forces.
Kulayigye appealed to residents to report suspicious activities to nearby security installations as operations continue to track down remaining suspects.
