The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, working in collaboration with the Regional Immigration Office in Mbarara, has handed over five Congolese soldiers to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC). The handover took place at Kasindi, Lhubiriha, along the Uganda–DRC border at Mpondwe.
The FARDC soldiers identified themselves as Sergeant Kabangu Nsingi Jeancy, 33; Corporal Bloende Botelu Enoch, 35; Private Nkonyi Ngumu Mbuya, 26; Private Musungu Malu Beni, 22; and Private Bakomba Mupepe Exauce, 20. The group fled Goma in Eastern DRC following intensified fighting, straying into Ugandan territory. Ugandan security intercepted them in Mukongolo and then transferred them to Buhoma Police for screening.
The UPDF has hosted the group since July 2025 in line with International Humanitarian Law, which requires humane treatment of foreign military personnel who enter another state, as well as regional norms that guide such situations. All five did not seek asylum and opted to return home voluntarily.
During the handover, the Commander of the UPDF Mountain Division, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, reaffirmed the strong cooperation between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“UPDF and FARDC continue to work closely as reliable partners in maintaining peace and stability across the region,” he said.
Maj Gen Mugerwa noted that the exercise reflects Uganda’s Pan-African spirit and commitment to regional solidarity, in line with cooperation frameworks under the East African Community and wider continental arrangements.
All required legal and administrative procedures were completed to ensure the safe and orderly repatriation of the soldiers.
Representing the DRC government, Maj Gen Everiste Somo Kakule, the Military Governor of North Kivu, commended the UPDF for the care extended to the FARDC soldiers during their stay in Uganda and applauded the cordial relations between the two forces.
Those present included Brig Gen Mugisa Muleka Joseph, the FARDC Sector Commander for the Northern Frontier, along with immigration officials from both countries.
