Uganda has deployed troops to Mahagi, DRC, to combat armed groups amid fears of escalating conflict. This move follows violent attacks by the Codeco militia, with at least 51 civilians reportedly killed. Uganda’s involvement in Ituri includes operations against the ADF and a joint response to the M23 group, supported by Rwanda, which raises concerns of regional destabilization.
On Sunday, the Ugandan army confirmed the deployment of troops to Mahagi, a town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), amid concerns regarding escalating conflicts involving local armed groups. Felix Kulayigye, Uganda’s defence spokesman, stated that the troops are now in control of the area, as requested by the Congolese army due to violent attacks by the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codeco) militia.
The situation in Mahagi, located in Ituri province, has been dire, with reports indicating that at least 51 individuals were killed by Codeco militia on February 10. Codeco claims to represent the interests of the Lendu community, primarily farmers, against the Hema community, who are predominantly herders. Uganda has previously deployed thousands of troops to various parts of Ituri under an agreement with the Congolese government.
In addition to this new deployment, Uganda has also launched a joint mission targeting the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels near the Ugandan border. Last month, the Ugandan military announced that it had successfully taken control of Bunia, the capital of Ituri, as part of its ongoing operations in the region.
The situation in Ituri is further complicated by the recent advances of the M23 anti-government group, which has captured significant areas in North and South Kivu, also accusing Rwanda of backing this group. The M23 claims to have captured fighters from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), associated with the 1994 Rwandan genocide, but the DRC army disputes these claims, labeling the video evidence as fabricated.
The deployment of Ugandan troops to Mahagi highlights the intensifying conflict in northeastern DR Congo as armed groups like Codeco exacerbate tensions in the region. With Uganda already engaged in ongoing military actions against the ADF and providing assistance to the Congolese army, this move may have far-reaching implications for regional stability, especially amid rising tensions involving the M23 group supported by Rwanda. Concerns over a potential escalation reminiscent of past conflicts loom as both Uganda and Rwanda assert their military presence in the DRC.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
