The fighting broke out on Tuesday in Ishaha, Rutshuru territory, North Kivu Province claiming the lives of nine government soldiers and three Mai-Mai militias. Four government soldiers were injured in the fighting.
According to information obtained by URN, the Mai-Mai fighters staged a surprise attack on the 3411th Regiment base in Ishasha where they looted weapons. The heavy gunfire pushed several Congolese nationals into Kanungu district via Ishasha border.
They are currently camped at Karukara trading center in Rukoora cell in Kihembe parish in Kanyantorogo Sub County. Uganda and DRC share a common border, which is separated by no man's land stretching about two Kilometers.
Ely Maate, the Kigezi Region Police spokesperson, told URN on Wednesday evening that more refugees were still crossing into Uganda. He however, said the fighting hasn't affected business on the Ugandan side of the border.
According to Maate, Police have teamed up with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) to transfer the refugees to Matanda refugee transit camp for registration pending transfer to Rwamwanja resettlement camp.
Major Peter Mugisa, the Second Division UPDF spokesperson, says UPDF is on high alert to maintain peace in the area.
-URN