The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) successfully rescued 40 people, mostly women and children, from Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in north eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The rescue followed fierce fighting in Biakato, Mambasa territory, 67 km northwest of Beni in Ituri Province, as part of Operation Shujaa.
Major Bilal Katamba stated that joint forces neutralized 27 ADF rebels and recovered nine guns, six walkie-talkies, ammunition, magazines, and human drugs.
General Richard Otto led the evacuation team, safely returning the hostages to Uganda. Nineteen rescued individuals are Ugandan nationals from Kyazanga, Mayuge, Nyanama, and Magamaga.
The injured soldier and rescued individuals received medical care at UPDF Muhote Hospital. Operation Shujaa continues to target ADF strongholds in eastern DRC.
