By Jurugo Emmanuel Ogasto
The Obongi District Ebola Task Force and District Security Committee on Sunday impounded a Fuso lorry carrying more than 200 children and 18 adults who were being transported from Koboko District to Adjumani District amid heightened Ebola surveillance measures.
The operation was conducted at the Obongi landing site by a team led by the Obongi Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka, alongside Deputy RDC and Assistant RDC Umuhoza Habiba Furaha.
According to security officials, the vehicle, registration number UBS 175H, was intercepted following resolutions passed by the Obongi District Ebola Task Force aimed at controlling unnecessary movement and preventing the possible spread of Ebola.
“We impounded the vehicle as part of the district Ebola prevention measures. We cannot risk the spread of Ebola through uncontrolled movement of large groups of people, especially children,” Hashaka told No. 1 Citizen Newspaper.
Security officials said they first arrested a catechist identified as Alfred Edema, and an animator identified as Samuel Ajobe, who reportedly claimed they were from Lima Catholic Parish in Koboko District and were taking the children to Adjumani District for a two-day visit.
Hashaka said the matter was later discussed with the Regional Police Commander for Madi Sub-region, RDC Koboko Emma Mitala, and Sabino Ocan Odoki before a final decision was reached.
“After consultations with the relevant authorities, we directed that the children be returned to Koboko immediately for the safety of the public,” Hashaka explained.
The impounded vehicle was reportedly driven by Ramathan Majub.
Police confirmed the incident to No. 1 Citizen Newspaper, saying the action was taken in line with ongoing public health and security measures to prevent any potential spread of Ebola in the region.