A Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier has been arrested after he reportedly shot and injured a Congolese national.

The victim was short after he crossed into Uganda through a porous border at Kisolholho Village, Karambi Sun-County in Kasese District.

Confirming the incident, Kasese Deputy Resident District Commissioner Maate Magwara said Monday the victim has been identified as Majwar Muhindo Kibwana.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that the 26-year-old – from neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – has been crossing to Uganda frequently and has been working as a casual labourer at Mpondwe Customs in Bwera.

Congolese works in Uganda

Magwara says that Kibwana has been loading and offloading goods from vehicles at the customs.

“You know the [ethnic] community is the sae both in Uganda and the DRC, so frequent cross-border movement. However, this one [Kibwana] crossed at an unauthorised point, and when he saw the soldier he ran away,” Magwara says.

But according to Magwara, the soldier used excessive force. “He could have apprehended Kibwana peacefully, especially since he had located hi at a residence.”

The victim is currently receiving treatment at Kagando Hospital.

The Uganda authorities are now urging foreigners and residents to judiciously cooperate with security officers.

“This is not the time to send signals that could be misconstrued by our security personnel… I also urge all residents of Kasese to maintain vigilance and promptly report any suspicious individuals in our villages.”