The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, have rescued 138 abductees during a targeted military operation against Allied Democratic Forces insurgents in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The operation, conducted under Operation Shujaa, targeted a key ADF stronghold near River Epulu. The camp was reportedly under the control of notorious ADF commander Meya Ssebagala.
According to the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, joint forces successfully dislodged the insurgents, leading to the rescue of dozens of captives.
“Two days ago, our forces, together with FARDC allies, attacked an ADF camp near River Epulu in eastern DRC. The camp was under the control of terrorist commander Meya Ssebagala. So far, we have liberated 138 abductees,” Gen. Kainerugaba said on X.
The strike focused on dismantling a strategic rebel base that had long served as a detention and operational hub for the ADF—an armed group responsible for deadly attacks and abductions across the region.
The coordinated offensive marks another milestone in Operation Shujaa, a joint UPDF-FARDC campaign aimed at neutralising ADF elements and restoring stability in eastern DRC.
The rescued individuals are expected to undergo screening and receive humanitarian assistance, as security forces continue pursuing fleeing rebels and dismantling remaining insurgent networks.
