news 15 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
67 Congolese Nationals Arrested in Masaka Church for Illegal Entry
Police in Masaka City apprehended 67 Congolese nationals, including children, who were attending a church service, for allegedly entering Uganda illegally. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/67-congolese-arrested-from-masaka-church-over-illegal-entry-into-uganda-5497342
Authorities in Masaka City have arrested 67 Congolese nationals found to be residing in Uganda without proper documentation. The group, consisting of 54 adults and 13 children, was apprehended by security forces while attending a service at Sumayiya Church, a Born Again denomination, in the Nyendo-Mukungwe area.
According to Southern Regional Police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye, preliminary investigations indicate that the Congolese nationals fled their home country due to conflicts that arose approximately two years ago. They have reportedly been living in various parts of Nyendo Division, including Kaddugala, Mukudde, Mukungwe, and Kako, and regularly convened at the church for worship.
“The group was apprehended at a church known as Sumayiya Church, which is used by Born Again Christians,” Kasirye stated on Monday. He further explained that the suspects lacked valid immigration documents, and charges of illegal entry into the country will be brought against them.
The arrested individuals are currently being held at Masaka Central Police Station. Police have issued a warning to religious institutions, urging them to exercise due diligence in verifying the legal status of foreign nationals they host to avoid contravening immigration laws. The arrested group is expected to be arraigned in court soon to face the charges.