More South Sudanese refugees arrested over imvepi riots

What the report says

Over 40 South Sudanese refugees have been arrested in Terego District, Uganda, after riots at Imvepi Refugee Settlement that damaged or burned offices linked to the Office of the Prime Minister, UNHCR and police. The Independent Uganda, citing URN, reported that the unrest was tied to disagreement over Refugee Welfare Council elections scheduled for Wednesday. Police said the arrests were made in stages, with four suspects held on Tuesday and another 37 picked up the following morning by a joint security team.

West Nile police spokesperson Josephine Angucia said those detained are being held at Terego Central Police Station and are under investigation for alleged arson, attempted murder, assault on police officers and malicious damage to property. The article said the total number in custody reached at least 41. Police also said two refugees died during the violence after live ammunition was used to disperse the crowd and prevent suspects from taking officers’ guns; the circumstances of the deaths are still being examined.

According to the report, the protests began when supporters of a candidate identified as Loro Charles James marched to Imvepi Police Station to demand that the elections be cancelled unless their preferred candidate was included. The demonstration then escalated into stone-throwing and attacks on buildings, vehicles and equipment. The settlement has since calmed, but normal operations remain suspended and some aid partners have moved staff and belongings to Arua while investigations continue.

The incident highlights recurring tensions in refugee settlements in Uganda, where local disputes can quickly affect security and humanitarian operations. In this case, police said the election dispute was the immediate trigger.