The Joint Counter-terror task teams from the Chieftaincy for Military Intelligence (CMI), Crime Intelligence, Counterterrorism, and Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) in coordination with territorial units, have heightened their state of readiness in operations.
This follows a terror attack that occurred on January 15, 2023, in the Eastern DRC at a Pentecostal Church in Lhubirira, an immediate town located 4kms after Mpondwe border point.
At least 17 people died while about 47 others suffered injuries.
Speaking on Monday at the weekly Security Press Briefing in Naguru, Police Spokesperson, Fred Enanga, noted that the terror attack shows that terrorism can occur any time and anywhere, “and further reminds us all, of the terrorist threats that we face as a country”.
He noted that several measures have been put in place to avert any hostile infiltrations and attacks at Mpondwe border and all other crossing points.
“For instance, we have stopped the movement of cargo and passenger boats across Lake Albert intensified patrols in Bugoma forest and across the borderlines, bolstered security at major installations, markets and parking yards, and intensified intelligence on several targets among others,” he said.
Enanga assured the public not to be alarmed by these steps because it is meant for their safety.
“We would like to further remind the public that the threats of terrorism are real, especially on soft targets, which are many and sometimes difficult to defend, especially restaurants, markets, shopping centres, public transportation hubs like taxi and bus parks, places of worship and other crowded places etc. as a result, we call upon the public to be extra alert and vigilant, as they go about their activities. Remember, the best defence against any terrorist threats is our collective community effort,” he said.
Enanga said, as police, they have been carrying out successful disruptive operations, however, there is still work to do to identify ADF cells of agents, collaborators, operatives and sponsors within the country.
