The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), in joint operations, rescued an estimated 500 abductees in the last four months under Operation Shujaa.
According to Major General Richard Otto, Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, a total of 100 Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels have since been neutralised.
While briefing the press at the Mountain Division Headquarters in Fort Portal City on Wednesday, Maj Gen Otto outlined the significant accomplishments of the operation against ADF in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which began in November 2021.
“Several top commanders have been captured while others have been put out of action by the joint operations.”
He also highlighted the destruction of enemy camps, the recovery of large quantities of firearms and ammunition, and the restoration of peace in the liberated regions.
Maj Gen Otto further reported the rescue of hundreds of ADF abductees, many of whom have been rehabilitated, trained, and reunited with their families.
“Schools have resumed, markets are operating, and people are moving freely,” he said, despite the challenges posed by the region’s difficult terrain.
He, however, noted that much as they have spent three years in the jungles of the DRC fighting the ADF, the rebel group remains a security threat not just to Uganda but to the whole region.
Major Dr Daniel Okello, the Division Medical Officer and Head of Medical Services for Operation Shujaa, provided an update on the health of the rescued abductees.
“Currently, we have 20 abductees, rescued two months ago, who are now in good health and walking, compared to their previous condition,” Dr Okello explained.
He encouraged members of the public to avoid involvement in terrorism-related activities and to continue supporting the ongoing fight against terrorism.
The briefing was attended by Colonel Deo Akiiki, Deputy Director of Defence Public Information, Colonel Godfrey Kyomuhendo, Division Operations Training Officer, and other senior UPDF officers.