Joint forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have rescued more than 200 civilians from captivity following a major offensive against an Allied Democratic Forces camp along River Epulu in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The camp was reportedly under the control of a notorious ADF commander, Ssebagala, also known as Mzee Mayor. During the operation, several fighters were killed and a cache of weapons recovered.
Speaking to the rescued civilians at Mungamba, the Overall Joint Commander of Operation Shujaa, Stephen Mugerwa, reaffirmed the forces’ commitment to dismantling ADF networks and restoring stability in the region.
“You are not under detention. You are victims of abduction, and we shall ensure you are handed over to the relevant authorities so you can reunite with your families,” he said.
Among those rescued were young people, including a 14-year-old girl and a 19-year-old boy. Many recounted harsh conditions in captivity, including lack of food, forced labour, and punishment for disobedience. Several appeared weak and were suffering from untreated illnesses such as malaria and respiratory infections.
One of the survivors, 41-year-old Kasereka Ndina, expressed gratitude to the joint forces, saying the rescue had restored her hope of returning home.
The operation also targeted other ADF positions along River Ituri, where insurgents were intercepted while attempting to cross. Increased military pressure has reportedly led to more escapes, with former captives reporting to joint force locations including Lolwa, Kyndala Kundala, and Babungwe.
Since January 2026, joint operations under Operation Shujaa have intensified, yielding significant gains. In February, forces overran a major ADF camp linked to commander Musa Baluku, recovering weapons and improvised explosive devices.
Officials say the sustained offensive has improved security in parts of eastern DRC, enabling displaced communities to begin returning home, schools to reopen, and cross-border trade between Uganda and the DRC to resume.
Operation Shujaa, launched in November 2021, is a joint military campaign aimed at eliminating ADF insurgents responsible for attacks in both Uganda and eastern DRC.
