Last night, Mpondwe was shaken by a terrorist attack carried out by ADF rebels on Lhubirira Secondary School, situated just 2 kilometers away from the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The assailants targeted the school, resulting in the burning of a dormitory and looting of a food store. There was a swift response to the scene, and the injured students were immediately transported to Bwera General Hospital for urgent medical attention.
According to the Kasese district RDC, Joe Walusimbi, 25 students lost their lives, eight sustained severe injuries, and about 30 were abducted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), this has plunged the community into shock and grief.
The report from police, “Last night, we registered a terrorist attack by the ADF rebels, on Lhubirira secondary school, in Mpondwe, that is located about 2 kms, from the DRC border. A dormitory was burnt and a food store looted. So far 25 bodies have been recovered from the school and transferred to Bwera Hospital. Also recovered are 8 victims, who remain in critical condition at Bwera Hospital.” – said FredEnanga the police spokesperson.
In response to the act, a joint operation led by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) and the police is underway. Security forces have initiated a hot pursuit towards Virunga National Park, where it is believed that the ADF rebels may have sought refuge. The pursuit aims to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of the region.
The tragic incident at Rubiriha Secondary School serves as a grim reminder of the persistent threat posed by armed groups in the area. It underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and increased vigilance to ensure the safety and protection of schools, students, and the entire community.
