More than 200 civilians freed from the hands of the ADF, the Ugandan army (UPDF) announced, adding that it is intensifying its military operations in eastern DRC in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
"The joint forces of the Ugandan People's Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have freed more than 200 civilians held captive following a major offensive against an Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) camp located along the Epulu River in eastern DRC. The camp was under the control of Ssebagala, a notorious ADF commander, also known as Mzee Mayor. During the operation, several ADF fighters were killed and a significant cache of weapons was recovered," the UPDF stated.
Addressing civilians freed in Mungamba, the commander of Operation Shujaa, Major General Stephen Mugerwa, stated that the joint forces remained committed to completely dismantling the ADF networks and restoring public order. He urged those freed to cooperate with the security forces.
“You are not in detention. You are victims of abduction, and we will ensure that you are handed over to the appropriate authorities so that you can be reunited with your families,” he added.
Among those rescued were a 14-year-old girl, the youngest, and a 19-year-old boy, the oldest. Many testified to appalling conditions of captivity, including lack of food, forced labor, and corporal punishment for disobedience. Several appeared frail, suffering from untreated illnesses such as malaria, respiratory infections, and physical exhaustion. Kasereka Ndina, aged 41, one of the survivors, expressed his gratitude to the joint forces for their rescue and support, saying it had revived his hope of returning home.
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