More than 100 trucks are said to be stuck at Mpondwe border in Kasese district following targeted attacks on drivers in the Democratic Republic of Congo by suspected militiamen.
Most local leaders targeted for interviews declined to comment not to interfere with the DR Congo-Uganda relations but some drivers said small groups of young men armed with rudimentary weapons have made cut-off points about 44 kilometers from Lhubiriha border along the Mpondwe-Beni route.
They allege the armed men reportedly attack drivers, loot goods, and set vehicles ablaze.
Kicumbi Laston, a trucker from Zambia said they loaded goods from South Africa destined for Congo through Mpondwe but they were told by clearing agents upon arrival at the border that they could not proceed with their journey because of insecurity in Eastern DRC.
Mr. Bigirwa Katerega, a Ugandan trucker, says that he is scared of entering DRC after getting reports that a number of drivers had been killed as they attempted to cross into Uganda. Mr. Katerega speaking…..
Benon Masereke, a driver who survived an attack on Monday, said a group of armed men intercepted his vehicle a couple of kilometers from Mpondwe border but managed to escape before the attackers torched the truck.
Henry Bwambale, the chairperson of the business community in Mpondwe, says business in the area continues to deteriorate due to the unending insurgencies in DR Congo.
He says the drivers have now resolved not to drive into Congo until they get assurance from DRC, asking both governments to work jointly to escort the truck drivers into DR Congo. Mr. Bwambale speaking…….
George Kanungo, a truck driver from Zambia says they have to pay about 20,000 shillings every night as parking fees for the trucks, describing the amount as unfair given the poor facilities at the yard. END