10 Congolese Nationals Intercepted in Pakwach Over Illegal Entry Amid Ebola Restrictions

By Skika Reporter.

Security operatives at the Pakwach checkpoint have intercepted 10 Congolese nationals who allegedly entered Uganda illegally and were travelling to Kampala, authorities have confirmed.

According to security officials, five Congolese nationals were intercepted on June 8, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., while another five were apprehended on June 9 during the Heroes Day holiday. The latest arrests bring the total number of intercepted individuals to 10.

Speaking to New Vision, Pakwach Deputy Resident District Commissioner Twaib Achile said the operation followed resolutions made during a meeting of the Ebola Task Force in Nebbi District. The measures were aimed at strengthening border controls and preventing the spread of Ebola into Uganda.

“We, the security at Pakwach, intercepted Congolese nationals who were illegally crossing the Pakwach checkpoint. By yesterday, around 11:00 p.m., we intercepted five, and this afternoon, we also had five. In total, we have 10 who were intercepted,” Achile said.

He explained that the action is in line with Ebola standard operating procedures issued by the government through the Ministry of Health and the National Ebola Task Force. Under the current directives, Uganda has temporarily restricted the entry of Congolese nationals as part of disease prevention efforts.

Authorities said the 10 individuals are being held pending deportation to the Democratic Republic of Congo through the Goli border point.

“We are yet to deport them. We shall deport them through Goli border point. This is in line with the directive of the National Ebola Task Force, which issued a directive to close the borders with DR Congo,” Achile explained.

The Ebola-related restrictions currently allow only transit vehicles carrying goods and trucks transporting food supplies to cross between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Security agencies have urged the public to comply with all border control measures as authorities continue efforts to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of Ebola