Joint forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have rescued more than 200 civilians from captivity following a major offensive against the Allied Democratic Forces in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The operation targeted an ADF camp located along River Epulu, which was reportedly under the control of a notorious commander, Ssebagala, also known as Mzee Mayor. Several fighters were killed during the assault, and a cache of weapons was recovered.
Addressing the rescued civilians at Mungamba, the Overall Joint Commander of Operation Shujaa, Stephen Mugerwa, reaffirmed the forces’ commitment to dismantling ADF networks and restoring stability in the region.
“You are not under detention. You are victims of abduction, and we shall ensure you are handed over to the relevant authorities so you can reunite with your families,” he told the group, urging them to cooperate with security personnel.
Among those rescued was a 14-year-old girl, the youngest, and a 19-year-old boy, the oldest. Survivors recounted harsh conditions in captivity, including food shortages, forced labour, and punishment for disobedience. Many appeared frail and were suffering from untreated illnesses such as malaria, respiratory infections, and severe exhaustion.
One of the rescued, 41-year-old Kasereka Ndina, expressed gratitude to the joint forces, saying the rescue had restored her hope of returning home.
The offensive also extended to other ADF positions, including areas along River Ituri, where insurgents were intercepted while attempting to cross. Increased military pressure has reportedly led to more escapes, with dozens of former captives surrendering at joint force locations such as Lolwa, Kyndala Kundala, and Babungwe.
Since January 2026, joint operations have intensified, yielding significant gains. In February, forces overran a major ADF camp linked to commander Musa Baluku, recovering weapons, improvised explosive devices, and other military equipment.
Authorities say the sustained offensive has improved security in parts of eastern DRC, allowing displaced communities to return home, schools to reopen, and cross-border trade between Uganda and the DRC to resume.
Operation Shujaa, launched in November 2021, is a joint military campaign by the UPDF and FARDC aimed at neutralising the ADF, an armed group blamed for numerous attacks in both eastern DRC and Uganda.
