In a daring joint operation, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) today rescued ten individuals, including five women and five children, from the clutches of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorist group in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The successful rescue mission, under the operation code-named “Operation Shujaa,” happened after a fierce battle with ADF terrorists at River Asefu in North Kivu province.

During the intense firefight, two women sustained injuries and were promptly airlifted to Muhoti Military Barracks for specialised medical attention. The malnourished children are also receiving critical care from the UPDF medical team.

Among those rescued is 32-year-old Atukwase Katushabe Jamilah, who was coerced into rebel activities in 2008 from Nabweru Division, Wakiso district.

Jamilah was subjected to forced marriages with multiple ADF commanders and was reunited with her 6-year-old daughter, Rahima, during the rescue.

The joint forces continue to pursue the scattered ADF terrorists, who have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Central Africa Province (ISCAP), an affiliate of ISIS.