As Uganda intensifies border surveillance and security measures to prevent the spread of Ebola from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), allegations have emerged that some Congolese nationals are bribing security personnel to gain entry into the country.
The more than 1,000-kilometer border between Uganda and the DRC, stretching from Koboko to Kisoro, is dotted with numerous porous crossing points and remains a major concern for health authorities. Joint security teams have been deployed to patrol the border, but officials say the risk of cross-border transmission remains high.
In response to the growing Ebola threat over the past three weeks, authorities suspended cross-border trade, closed markets, and banned public gatherings, including betting activities and night discos, in border areas and Arua City. Despite the restrictions, reports indicate that some Congolese nationals continue to enter Arua on foot or by motorcycle.
During a meeting between boda boda leaders from Arua City and the DRC held Wednesday at Odramacaku border point, participants alleged that some Congolese traders pay up to $100 to security personnel to facilitate their entry into Uganda.
Swadik Amaku, chairperson of the Arua City Boda Boda Association, said operators had agreed to impound motorcycles found transporting Congolese nationals into Uganda. However, he alleged that some travelers bypass the restrictions by bribing security personnel.
“Our efforts are being undermined because some people use money to gain entry,” Amaku said.
Herbert Odama, chairperson of the Arua Main Market Vendors Association, said some security officers had been accused of accepting bribes, while boda boda riders continued transporting people through unofficial crossing points for higher fares.
In response, Ignatius Dragudu, the West Nile regional police community liaison officer, urged the public to report any officers involved in facilitating illegal border crossings.
Betty Otekat, the Arua Resident City Commissioner, described the allegations as unfortunate and pledged that authorities would investigate and stop the practice as security operations along the border continue.
Despite the closure of official border crossings and the suspension of public activities such as disco dances, betting centers and political rallies, many residents on both sides of the border continue with their daily activities, posing challenges for efforts to contain the threat of Ebola.
