Operation Shujaa: Joint Forces Capture ADF Commander in DRC, Rescue Nine People

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have captured Anywari Al Iraq, also known as AA, a commander of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorist group.

Anywari, an expert in improvised explosive devices (IEDs), hails from the Busia district in Eastern Uganda.

During the operation, the forces recovered one sub-machine gun (SMG), 45 rounds of ammunition, three walkie-talkies, one RPG charger, and various materials used for making IEDs.

Major Yusuf Bilal Katamba, spokesperson for the UPDF Mountain Division, confirmed the capture. “Our joint forces were able to capture him with his weapon, an AK-47 gun. Al Iraq is a 20-year-old man from Busia district who has been operating in Ituri in the DRC under the group of Muzei Meya Ssebagala. He is an IED expert, and these devices have long been the weapon of choice for the ADF,” Katamba stated.

The operation also led to the rescue of four children and five women, who are currently receiving medical attention. By press time, arrangements were being made to transfer them to a better medical facility.

Maj. Gen. Katamba emphasized that UPDF forces continue to pursue ADF remnants in the DRC jungles. “The joint forces are continuing to pursue the ADF terrorists from all directions in their areas of operation,” he added.