The joint forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), under Operation Shujaa, have intensified operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The forces struck a rebel camp west of River Epulu. They recovered a significant cache of weapons and bomb-making materials.
The joint forces seized weapons, improvised explosive devices, a milling machine and other equipment. Several ADF fighters were killed during the assault. Others fled with injuries.
The overall Operation Commander of Operation Shujaa, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, is overseeing the offensive. He has been coordinating directly with field units and pledged to maintain pressure on the insurgents until they are decisively neutralised.
During the latest offensive, the forces freed twelve captives around Ofayee near the Ndimo area. The former captives described harsh conditions in rebel hands. They spoke of forced labour and enduring physical abuse.
Security forces are now pursuing remnants of the group that escaped from the River Epulu camp. The camp had served as one of the ADF’s key hideouts. Military officials described the assault as a surprise attack on the rebel ranks.
Operation Shujaa is a joint military offensive launched in November 2021 by the UPDF and FARDC. It targets ADF elements operating in the Kivu and Ituri regions of eastern DR Congo.