Ugandan and Congolese military commanders have agreed to step up operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Ituri Province, with a focus on pursuing three rebel leaders.
The commanders reached the agreement during a joint security meeting at the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) headquarters in Bunia.
Major General Stephen Mugerwa, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa commander, called for operations to capture or kill ADF leaders Abwakasi, Musa Baruku and Mayor Ssebagala.
Mugerwa reported that troops had recently killed one rebel and rescued four abducted people. They also recovered a firearm and materials used to make improvised explosive devices. He did not specify when or where the operation took place.
FARDC representative Brigadier General Bonney said Uganda’s military support had helped troops reclaim areas held by rebels. He said the gains had allowed civilians to resume their daily activities with fewer disruptions.
Bonney urged the two armies to strengthen coordination to secure the recovered areas.
UPDF Colonel Turyabe proposed joint training to improve coordination and combat effectiveness. He also called for closer engagement with local communities to support efforts against the rebels.
Senior officers from both armies attended the meeting.
