The Ugandan and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) joint security forces have rescued 23 Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) abductees in a joint operation codenamed Operation Shujaa in the eastern region of the DRC.
Major Bilal Katamba, the Public Information Officer of the UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, said on July 27, 2024, that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), have successfully rescued 23 individuals from the clutches of the notorious ADF rebels.
“The operation took place near the River Malibongo, north of Tokomeka in Ituri Province, where the joint forces engaged with ADF militants, leading to the extraction of the abductees from dense jungles,” Maj Katamba said.
He noted that among those rescued are 16 females and 7 males, among whom 13 are minors, and out of these three are infants under the age of one.
However, reports indicate that many of the rescued individuals are suffering from severe malnutrition.
Upon their rescue, the abductees were brought to the UPDF tactical headquarters in Luna, Ituri Province, where a dedicated joint medical team is providing emergency care to address their urgent health needs, according to Maj Katamba.
“The mothers of the infants are also receiving basic medical treatment in the field, with plans underway to transfer them to a medical facility for more comprehensive care,” Maj Katamba added.
He emphasized the importance of the operation in the broader context of regional security efforts, saying that the rescue operation not only brings hope to the victims and their families but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in the fight against extremist groups in Central Africa.
Operation Shujaa, now entering its 31st month, aims to decisively dismantle the ADF, a terrorist organization with ties to the Islamic State.
The successful rescue operation highlights the ongoing commitment of Ugandan and Congolese forces to combat terrorism and protect vulnerable populations in the region, which has for long been a cradle of rebel activities.
