The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have successfully rescued 40 people, mostly women and children, from the hands of Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in the north eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The rescue occurred following fierce fighting in Biakato, Mambasa territory, located 67 km northwest of Beni in Ituri Province, as part of the ongoing joint Operation Shujaa between the UPDF and the Congolese armed forces (FARDC).
According to Major Bilal Katamba, the public relations officer for the UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, the joint forces neutralized 27 ADF rebels during the combat.
The joint forces made significant recoveries, including nine guns, six walkie-talkies, multiple rounds of ammunition, magazines, and human drugs.
General Richard Otto, the commander of Operation Shujaa, led the evacuation team and safely returned the rescued hostages to Uganda. Among the 40 rescued, 19 are Ugandan nationals from Kyazanga, Mayuge, Nyanama, and Magamaga.
The injured joint forces soldier and the rescued individuals were flown to UPDF Muhote Hospital for medical care.
Operation Shujaa, a joint military offensive, continues its mission to dismantle ADF rebel strongholds in eastern DRC and restore peace in the region.