The Kasese Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Aminadab Muhindo, says UPDF has taken over the security of the mines to counter any security threats that may arise from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The deployment comes only a few months after government repossessed the mines through Kilembe Mines Limited-KML.
In February 2018, the Finance, Planning and Economics Development Ministry terminated the 25 year concession of Hima Tibet Company Limited on the directives of president, Yoweri Museveni.
It followed allegations that a top minister and several government officials pocketed bribes from the company over the deal. Tibet Hima has since dragged government to court in seeking compensation of Shillings 600billion for terminating its 25 years concession.
Muhindo defends the involvement of the army, saying UPDF is also charged with protecting the wealth of the country, which includes mines.
Col. Philip Mugarura says they have only deployed to reinforce Uganda Police Force.
Meanwhile, Fred WeragaKyakonye, the Chief Executive Officer Kilembe Mines Limited, says they are working on reinstating the infrastructure underground and revamping Mubuku Hydro Power Plant, which broke down under the management of Tibet Hima.
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