Uganda Aids Congolese Police Amid M23 Conflict

Uganda has returned nearly 100 Congolese police officers who fled M23 rebel fighting to Kanungu district. The officers, their weapons, and identities were confirmed, and they entered Uganda in line with international law. The M23 insurgency has displaced 1.7 million in North Kivu, worsening Congo's humanitarian crisis.

Uganda has returned nearly 100 Congolese police officers who fled ongoing clashes with M23 rebels to Kanungu district in Uganda. This was confirmed by military spokesperson Major Kiconco Tabaro on Friday.

According to Major Tabaro, the officers' national identities were verified, and they were allowed into Uganda as an act of humanity in accordance with international law. They were handed over with their weapons and ammunition. Uganda continues to see an influx of refugees escaping the violence in eastern Congo.

The M23 insurgency, which reignited in eastern Congo in 2022, has escalated over the past year. Despite intensified efforts by Congo's military, including the use of drones and aircraft, rebels have captured more territory. The conflict in North Kivu alone has displaced over 1.7 million people, contributing to a record 7.2 million displaced individuals across Congo, reports the U.N.

(With inputs from agencies.)