Security teams at the Pakwach UPDF checkpoint have arrested five Congolese nationals who were traveling to Kampala in a private vehicle after allegedly entering Uganda illegally.
According to Pakwach Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Achile Twaibu, the suspects bypassed official entry procedures despite ongoing border restrictions put in place to prevent the spread of Ebola. He confirmed that the five individuals will be deported through the Goli Border.
Their arrest brings the total number of Congolese nationals deported since June 1 to 39 as authorities intensify enforcement of border control measures in the West Nile sub-region.
Meanwhile, health officials have warned of tougher restrictions should an Ebola case be detected in the region. Dr. Jimmy Opigo, a senior health official, said West Nile could face a partial lockdown if even a single case is confirmed.
Dr. Opigo explained that a contained outbreak could be brought under control within 105 days, but widespread community transmission would significantly prolong response efforts, extending the containment period to as much as 210 days.
Authorities continue to urge communities to adhere to health guidelines and use official border entry points as Uganda strengthens efforts to keep Ebola out of the country.
