Health 9 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Five Congolese Detained at Pakwach Checkpoint Amidst Heightened Ebola Border Security
Ugandan authorities have arrested five Congolese nationals attempting to enter the country illegally at a Pakwach checkpoint, bringing the total deportations to 39 as fears of Ebola spread intensify. The Ministry of Health is considering a permanent testing center in the region due to high traffic. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ebola-threat-five-congolese-arrested-at-pakwach-checkpoint-as-deportations-hit-39-5491000
Security forces in Pakwach District have intercepted five Congolese nationals attempting to travel to Kampala in a private vehicle, following Uganda’s closure of its borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to escalating Ebola concerns. The individuals are reported to have entered the country illegally after border restrictions were put in place.
Achile Twaibu, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Pakwach, confirmed the arrests and stated that the five individuals would be deported via the Goli border post. This incident marks the latest in a series of deportations, with the total number of Congolese nationals sent back across the border since June 1 now reaching 39.
Mr. Twaibu expressed concern over perceived laxity among security officials in neighboring Arua, suggesting it undermines joint regional efforts to curb illegal entry. He highlighted reports of over 50 Congolese nationals operating in local hotels in Arua and questioned the delay in taking action against them.
Since June 1, intensified screening measures have been implemented on all public transport, including buses and taxis, traveling from the West Nile region towards Kampala and other parts of the country. These mandatory day-and-night checks aim to intercept individuals attempting to cross into Uganda from the DRC, which has been experiencing a surge in Ebola cases.
Health officials, led by Dr. Jimmy Opigo, Assistant Commissioner for Health Services, are considering establishing a permanent health screening and holding center in Pakwach due to the significant volume of travelers passing through. Dr. Opigo warned that the West Nile region could face a partial lockdown if a single Ebola case is confirmed, which would severely impact the local economy.
In response to the escalating threat, Arua City authorities have mandated hotels to screen guests and have prohibited accommodations for visitors from high-risk areas within the DRC. Cross-border markets have also been suspended.