Security officials and the top district leadership in Bundibugyo have begun a series of engagements with Local Council One (LC1) chairpersons across the district following last Saturday’s coordinated attacks on security installations in several districts across the Rwenzori and Tooro regions.
It was a morning of horror when unknown assailants launched simultaneous strikes on police and military positions, leaving security agencies on high alert.
The attackers, described as operating in scattered groups and armed with crude weapons, targeted installations in Bundibugyo, Kasese, Bunyangabu, and Fort Portal, prompting a widespread security response.
In Bundibugyo, district authorities say the renewed engagements with LC1 chairpersons are intended to reinforce community vigilance and reawaken local leadership to their constitutional responsibility as the first line of neighborhood security.
During one of the meetings, National Resistance Movement (NRM) Commissioner Jane Alisemera stressed the importance of accountability and proactive monitoring at the grassroots level.
“Local leaders must take full responsibility for the safety of their communities,” Alisemera said. “If criminals are operating in your area, it means there is a gap in vigilance. We may need to introd
uce district ordinances that place greater responsibility on LC1s to ensure they fully play their role.”
She added that empowering local leaders to act swiftly on intelligence would prevent the spread of insecurity and help security forces respond more effectively.
“We need early reporting of suspicious individuals and movements,” she said. “Community safety begins at the village.”
Minister of State for ICT Godfrey Kabyanga condemned the attackers, describing them as individuals devoid of societal values and national loyalty.
“These are unreligious and illiterate groups that must be dealt with firmly,” Kabyanga said.
“Those still hiding should surrender now. If you surrender, the legal process may be lighter, but if you wait to be captured while fighting, the consequences will be severe.”
The minister encouraged residents to work closely with security agencies by sharing any information that could help track down the remaining suspects.
Bundibugyo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Rtd. Maj. Jones Mugabirwa, revealed that among those killed in recent operations was the group’s head of training.
“The elimination of their training commander is a significant blow to their operational capability,” Mugabirwa said. “We are continuing to dismantle their coordination networks and hideouts.”
Security officials say surveillance remains heightened across the broader Rwenzori region, with joint intelligence operations ongoing.
The public has been urged to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
Authorities maintain that the cooperation of community members and LC leaders will be central to restoring and maintaining security stability in the region.