Kampala — THE Uganda Peoples Defence Forces in Pader district has stepped up its anti-insurgency operation against the Lord's Resistance Army rebels, killing 12 and rescuing more than 20 abductees in the last week, security sourcessaid, reports Justin Moro.

The government has deployed more soldiers to comb suspected LRA hideouts.

The deputy resident district commissioner, Pader, Sylvester Opira, called upon residents to cooperate with security forces to fight against the rebels.

He appealed to the LRA rebels to come out of the bush in response to the amnesty law, which is still in force.

The RDC said more UPDF soldiers will be deployed throughout the district to improve on the security for residents, travellers and protect government installations such as the health facilities, schools and trading centres.

Rebel attacks on civilians have increased in recent weeks.

On Sunday the LRA attacked Lira Municipality suburbs, killed an old woman and burnt several houses.

Their attempt on Lango College was foiled by the UPDF. Ends