Several ADF Rebels Killed As UPDF–FARDC Forces Strike Camp, Rescue Abductees

The joint forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have intensified operations under Operation Shujaa, targeting Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) positions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the latest offensive, troops struck a rebel camp west of River Epulu, recovering a significant cache of weapons and bomb-making materials.

Military sources said the joint forces seized firearms, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), a milling machine believed to have been used in the fabrication of explosive components, and other assorted equipment.

Several ADF fighters were killed during the assault, while others reportedly fled with injuries as the forces overran the camp.

One of the abductees sharing some of the harrowing experinces in the bush to Maj Gen Mugerwa at UPDF Tactical HQ-Luna-DRC.

The overall Operation Commander of Operation Shujaa, Maj. Gen. Stephen Mugerwa, has been overseeing the renewed push, coordinating closely with field units. He reaffirmed the mission’s objective to sustain pressure on the insurgents until they are decisively neutralised.

During the operation, twelve captives were rescued near Ofayee in the Ndimo area. According to military officials, the former captives described harsh conditions while in rebel custody, including forced labour and physical abuse.

Security forces are continuing pursuit operations against remnants of the group who escaped from the River Epulu camp, described by officials as one of the ADF’s key hideouts. The assault was characterised as a surprise attack that disrupted the rebels’ operations.

Operation Shujaa was launched in November 2021 as a joint offensive between the UPDF and FARDC to dismantle ADF networks operating in the Kivu and Ituri regions of eastern Congo.