By Sharon Kyomugisha
Joint forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have carried out fresh operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Mambasa territory, eastern DRC.
According to the UPDF, artillery strikes were conducted over the weekend of 22 to 23 November 2025, targeting two ADF hideouts near Babunga village, south of River Epulu.
Military sources say the operation inflicted heavy losses on the ADF, with several fighters reportedly neutralized. There are also unconfirmed reports that ADF leader Musa Baluku may have been present at one of the targeted camps, though his status remains unclear.
Authorities say intelligence assessments, supported by accounts from residents in the area, indicate that the armed group suffered significant disruption to its operational capacity.
The latest strikes form part of the ongoing Operation Shujaa, a joint military campaign aimed at dismantling ADF networks operating in eastern DRC.
UPDF says remaining ADF elements are now under sustained pressure and are reportedly scattering into smaller groups as they attempt to evade capture across the vast forested terrain.
The military says operations will continue as part of efforts to restore stability and security in the region
