Imvepi Refugee Settlement riots leave two dead and dozens arrested

At least 41 South Sudanese refugees have been arrested following violent riots at the Imvepi Refugee Settlement in Uganda's Terego District. The unrest, which began on Tuesday, August 25, was triggered by disputes regarding the Refugee Welfare Council (RWC) elections.

Protesters, reportedly supporting an unsuccessful candidate named Loro Charles James, marched to the Imvepi Police Station to demand the cancellation of elections unless their candidate was included on the ballot. The situation escalated into violence, resulting in the deaths of two South Sudanese refugees who were struck by stray bullets during the confrontation. Police stated that live ammunition was used to disperse rioters and prevent individuals from attempting to seize firearms.

The riots caused significant damage to government and humanitarian infrastructure. Facilities belonging to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and the UNHCR were vandalized or set on fire, including the OPM administrative block, the UNHCR office block, and the OPM canteen. Additionally, police barracks, a motorcycle, and a generator were destroyed, and two police officers sustained injuries. Investigations into arson, attempted murder, and malicious property damage are ongoing.