Ugandans at the border with Rwanda banned from crossing to Rwanda.

By; Our reporter

11^th November 2019

Security authorities in Rukiga district have banned unnecessary movement of Ugandan traders to Rwanda following the killing of two Ugandan traders by the Rwandan Security.

The traders namely John Bosco Tuhirirwe and Job Byarushaga, both residents of Kamwezi Sub county were shot dead by Rwandan security at Tabarwe in Nyagatare district, about 200 meters from Ugandan border for allegedly smuggling tobacco.

Three other Ugandans who were with the deceased including Aron Ainebyoona, Christopher Byamukama and Emmanuel Niwamanya managed to flee back to Uganda.

In a press release issued on Sunday evening, the Rwanda Rational Police Spokesperson, Commissioner of Police (CP), John Bosco Kabeera, said the Ugandans were shot in self-defense when they turned violent and assaulted police officers on duty.

The deceased’s bodies are still in the custody of Rwandan authorities. Now, Prikeria Muhindo Mwiine, the Rukiga Resident District Commissioner, says they have banned the unnecessary movement of Ugandan traders to Rwanda to prevent similar incidents.

On the statement issued by Rwanda National Police, Muhindo wonders why the Rwandan police opted for blood shade other than apprehending the suspects for prosecution since they were not armed.

Jackson Muganiizi, the Rukiga District LC V Vice Chairman, says the decision by security to block Ugandan traders from crossing into Rwanda illegally is long overdue however many residents say they cannot  survive without crossing to Rwanda to transact business. Ever since the standoff between Uganda and Rwandan governments in March this year the boarders have never been opened.