Tension At Uganda-Congo Border

Tension At Uganda-Congo Border
5 May 2008

May 05, 2008

TENSION has been mounting along the Uganda-Congo border in West Nile after the Congolese troops assumed control over a disputed piece of land between Arua district and Aru township in DR Congo.

Sources said the Congolese authorities deployed several armed policemen and soldiers in a zone where the alignment of the border has never been defined though it is considered to be "No-Mans" ground.

Military commanders from either side of the border held an impromptu meeting on Saturday amid growing concern that the conflict would lead to an armed clash.

The Arua-based UPDF 409 brigade commander, Lt. Col. Hassan Kimbowa, said he met his Congolese counterpart, Col. Masudi, after they erected a metallic and concrete barrier just 200m from the Ugandan crossing point at Vurra in Arua district.

They also put up a signpost 5ft from the Uganda customs fence, he added.

"They have always wanted to shift their border but diplomatic steps that were initiated to settle the matter have been an impediment. Two days ago, they boldly moved in with their items and created the barrier," Kimbowa narrated.

He said all concerned Government authorities had been informed of the incursion and further diplomatic arrangements were reportedly underway between Kampala and Kinshasa to restore normalcy.

A delegation from the foreign affairs ministry is due to visit the area today.