In an ongoing military offensive against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a joint operation between the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) achieved a significant victory in Biakato, Mambasa Territory, Eastern DRC, 67 kilometers northwest of Beni, Ituri Province.
Known as Operation Shujaa, the campaign has been focused on eliminating the ADF, a terrorist group responsible for numerous atrocities in the region and affiliated with ISIS under the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP).
According to Major Bilal Katamba UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa Spokesperson, the fierce fighting between the joint forces and ADF militants which occurred on Monday resulted in the rescue of 40 civilians, the majority being women and children.
“The victims had been held captive by the ADF, and their release comes as a relief to families and communities in both Uganda and the DRC. Among the rescued, 19 Ugandans from various regions such as Kyazanga, Mayuge, Nyanama, and Magamaga were identified, sparking hope for more successful rescues,” he said.
The battle also saw the joint forces make significant recoveries of enemy equipment, including 9 firearms—8 submachine guns (SMGs) and 1 PKM machine gun—along with 6 walkie-talkies, several magazines, and rounds of ammunition. Additionally, a variety of human drugs were seized, indicating the ADF’s growing desperation as they struggled to maintain control over their strongholds.
During the encounter, 27 ADF militants were neutralized, with several others sustaining injuries as the joint forces pressed their advantage. However, the UPDF and FARDC also suffered a casualty, with one soldier from the joint forces being wounded in the leg. “Immediate medical evacuation was conducted, with both the injured soldier and the rescued civilians being flown to the UPDF Muhote Hospital, where they received prompt medical care.”
“Following the successful operation, Gen. Otto, commander of Operation Shujaa, flew to Biakato to personally oversee the rescue and congratulate his troops. His arrival was met with overwhelming applause from the local population, who praised the joint forces for their bravery and commitment to restoring peace,” he said.
The people of Biakato, who have long suffered under ADF occupation, expressed their deep appreciation for the efforts that have led to their liberation. “These soldiers are not just protecting borders; they are saving lives,” said Gen Otto.
Major Katamba urged that while this operation marks a significant victory, the hunt for ADF militants continues as UPDF and FARDC troops aim to deliver a final blow to the terrorist group. With connections to ISIS, the ADF has wreaked havoc on both Ugandan and Congolese communities, and the joint forces are determined to dismantle their networks once and for all.
“The mission in Biakato is part of a broader strategy to deny the group safe havens in the dense forests of Eastern Congo. As the UPDF and FARDC continue their campaign, it is clear that the commitment to peace and stability in the region remains strong so that trade and other economic activities can take place to ensure development in the region,” he said.
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