Kampala — A suspected Congolese rebel was killed on Sunday in Kisoro district following a fire exchange between the UPDF and a group of thugs that crossed into the area.

The UPDF Second Division spokesperson, Lt. Kiconco Tabaro, said the incident occurred at Kanombe, two-and-a-half kilometres from the DR Congo border. The thugs were intercepted by the 17th battalion.

"The troops were on duty and they tried to arrest them. But the thugs resisted and shot at the soldiers who also shot at them, killing one of them. No one was injured on our side," said Tabaro on phone yesterday.

He added that the army recovered a submachine gun, one hand-grenade and 27 bullets from the deceased.

"We are investigating the incident but we suspect the thugs to be Gen. Laurent Nkunda's men," Tabaro added.

"The gunmen fled back to DR Congo but we have asked security personnel in Muramba and Busanza in Kisoro to remain vigilant."