In a continued effort to neutralize the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), the joint forces of the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have killed at least 50 ADF rebels in recent operations in eastern Congo. The offensive, part of Operation Shuja, took place in the territories of Beni, North Kivu, and Ituri Province.
According to Congolese media quoting Lieutenant-Colonel MAK HAZUKAY, Communications and Awareness Officer for the SOKOLA 1 GRAND Nord operational sector, the joint forces successfully eliminated 27 ADF fighters and captured 37 others in Byakato and its surrounding areas. During the operation, seven weapons were recovered, including six AK-47 rifles and one PKM machine gun. In a significant victory, a woman who had been held captive by the rebels was also rescued.
“These operations demonstrate the sustained efforts by the FARDC and UPDF to bring security and stability to the eastern DRC,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Hazukay. “The ADF continues to pose a serious threat to civilians in the region, but Operation Shuja is systematically weakening their capabilities.
In a separate operation, the Congolese and Ugandan soldiers struck again in the locality of Beu-Manyama, an area within the Beni-Mbau sector of North Kivu Province. This second offensive resulted in the deaths of 25 more ADF rebels, the capture of 35 others, and the freeing of seven hostages.
Operation Shuja, launched in late 2021, is a coordinated military campaign aimed at eradicating ADF insurgents who have been responsible for numerous attacks on civilians in both Uganda and the DRC. The rebel group, originally based in Uganda, has operated in eastern Congo for decades and is notorious for committing atrocities, including mass killings and abductions.
With the latest offensive, UPDF and FARDC commanders have reiterated their commitment to pursuing the remaining ADF elements to ensure peace and security for the people of eastern Congo. The joint operations have gained momentum in recent months, following intelligence sharing and enhanced coordination between the two armies.
Despite the progress, both FARDC and UPDF leadership acknowledge that the fight against the ADF is far from over. The joint forces continue to urge local communities to cooperate with security agencies by providing information on rebel movements.
