The Ugandan and Congolese armed forces, during Operation Shujaa, killed 27 ADF terrorists and rescued 40 captives, primarily women and children. The operation, conducted in Biakato and Mambasa territory, also resulted in the recovery of several firearms and ammunition. One soldier was injured during the encounter.
Joint military operations conducted by the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Congolese Army (FARDC) have successfully eliminated 27 members of the Allied Democratic Front (ADF) during an engagement in Biakato and Mambasa territory, located approximately 67 kilometers northwest of Beni in the Ituri province. This operation, designated as “Operation Shujaa,” also resulted in the rescue of 40 captives, the majority of whom were women and children from Uganda’s Busoga sub-region. According to Major Bilal Katamba, spokesperson for the UPDF Mountain Division, additional actions included the seizure of weaponry, which comprised nine firearms, notably eight sub-machine guns and one PK machine gun, alongside several rounds of ammunition and communication devices. One soldier from the joint forces sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at UPDF Muhote Hospital. These operations highlight the intensified efforts by Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to counteract the activities of terrorist groups linked to ISIS, particularly the ADF, which is associated with the Islamic State of Central Africa Province (ISCAP).
The Allied Democratic Front (ADF) is a rebel group that has perpetrated violence, particularly in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with historical ties to the extremist organization ISIS. The conflict is rooted in longstanding political, ethnic, and economic grievances affecting the region. Joint military initiatives, such as Operation Shujaa, have emerged as a critical response to curb the influence and activities of the ADF and provide security to local populations. Such operations underscore regional cooperation between Uganda and the DRC in addressing cross-border terrorism and ensuring collective security.
In summary, the joint military efforts by the Ugandan and Congolese forces under Operation Shujaa have yielded significant results, including the neutralization of ADF terrorists and the protection of vulnerable civilians. The successful execution of this operation not only reflects the military capabilities of the involved forces but also signifies a concerted effort to enhance regional stability and security against extremist threats.
Original Source: www.newvision.co.ug