UPDF, FARDC Forces Rescue 8 Abducted Civilians, Kill ADF Terrorists in Eastern DRC

In a successful joint operation, the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) dealt a significant blow to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorists in Eastern DRC.

According to Major Bilal Katamba the spokesperson of UPDF Mountain Division/Operation Shujaa an operation on the 20th of January 2024, led to the killing of three ADF terrorists and consequent rescue of eight hostages, including five children and three women.

Maj Katamba says the daring rescue mission happened  on the West bank of River Lunah,  in the Matunguru Valley, North East of Maitatu, Irumu territory, Ituri Province.

The hostages, according to the rescued women, had been abducted during an ADF ambush on a bus traveling from Kamanda to Beni. The bus was attacked at Ndalya on the 5th of November 2021, and the captives had endured captivity until their liberation by the joint UPDF/FARDC forces.

Among the items recovered from the ADF terrorists were an RPG bomb and medicines believed to have been used by the rebels. The relentless pursuit of the joint forces against the retreating rebels follows their eviction from Mwalika Valley late last year.

Major Bilal Katamba says that the ADF, an affiliate of ISIS, has been responsible for numerous atrocities against the Wanainchi in Eastern DRC and Uganda. He adds that the joint forces remain committed to eliminating the ADF threat and restoring peace to the region.