The Uganda Peoples Defence Force has called for calm following the heavy deployment of troops by Rwanda at its border with Uganda.

The UPDF 2nd Division spokesperson, Capt. Robert Kamara, said Uganda's border with Rwanda is safe.

"The UPDF is not bothered by the deployments and the movements of the Rwanda army because we don't control them. Ours is to guarantee the security of our people by ensuring that our border is safe. There is no need for any worry or panic," Capt. Kamara said at the weekend.

Panic

The Chairman of Butanda Sub-county in Kabale District, Mr Banett Champion, yesterday said the recent deployment of the Rwandan troops near the border has caused panic among residents.

"Hundreds of Rwandan soldiers are seen patrolling along the border in the areas adjacent to my sub-county. I was told that in the past they used to carry out their night patrols at 8pm but now they are doing it at 6pm. The people here are worried," Mr Champion said.

The Kabale deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mr Shafique Ssekandi, said the deployment of Rwandan troops on the border is the right of the Rwandan government that should not scare the Ugandans.

"Don't be scared of the Rwandan deployment because they are doing it on their land," Mr Ssekandi said.