Abducted Ugandan Engineers Freed After Gen Kainerugaba's Talks with S. Sudan Counterpart

Two Ugandan engineers, who had been abducted by South Sudanese soldiers, were released following a meeting between the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and his South Sudanese counterpart, Gen Santino Deng Wol.

Gen Muhoozi, also Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, hosted Gen Deng Wol about two weeks ago, where they discussed regional security matters of mutual interest.

The two engineers arrived in Kampala via Uganda Airlines on Monday and were received by military intelligence.

According to Maj Gen Lul Ruai Koang, the SSPDF spokesperson and Director for Media and Press, Gen Santino Deng Wol also secured the release of three servicemen who had been arrested by UPDF in July, following the meeting. The two Generals further agreed that trade and commerce between the two East African countries should continue.

During his time in Kampala, Gen Deng Wol emphasised the deep ties between Ugandans and the South Sudanese, remarking, "We are one people." He noted his surprise when visiting Kampala’s Arua Park, which was filled with South Sudanese.

Gen Kainerugaba expressed gratitude for the visit, highlighting that the discussions marked the beginning of renewed relations between their militaries, benefiting both countries.