Ugandan Military Reports Rescue of 200 ADF Hostages in Eastern DRC

The Ugandan military announced that it, alongside Congolese forces, successfully freed approximately 200 civilians held hostage by Islamist militants in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This operation, conducted in a coordinated effort, targeted a rebel camp near the River Epulu, where the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) had been holding captives for some time.

Joint Operation Against ADF

The raid, part of the ongoing “Operation Shujaa,” was executed by the Ugandan People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). The operation has intensified since January of this year, resulting in major territorial and strategic victories. According to military statements, the attack focused on a known ADF stronghold, led by the group’s infamous commander, Ssebagala, who is also referred to as Mzee Mayor.

“You are not under detention. You are the victims of abduction, and we shall ensure you are handed over to the relevant authorities so you can reunite with your families,” said Major General Stephen Mugerwa, the overall commander of Operation Shujaa.

During the assault, several ADF fighters were eliminated, and a stockpile of weapons was seized. Over 200 individuals, including a 14-year-old girl, were liberated from captivity. Many survivors described their ordeal, citing severe hardships such as restricted food supplies, forced labor, and physical abuse.

Impact of the Operation

The UPDF reported that the offensive has bolstered security in parts of eastern DRC, facilitating the return of displaced communities and the reopening of schools. Cross-border trade between Uganda and the DRC has also seen a revival. In addition to the main camp, the operation disrupted other ADF strongholds, including locations along the River Ituri.

Uganda and the DRC have escalated their efforts against the ADF in recent months, driven by the need to address regional threats. This includes a conflict with the M23 rebels, who operate near the southern DRC border and are suspected of receiving support from Rwanda. A peace agreement for that conflict was recently enacted, marking a fragile but critical step toward stability.

ADF’s Allegiance to Islamic State

The ADF, designated as a terrorist group by both Uganda and the DRC, has been linked to the Islamic State since 2016. This connection solidified following a leadership shift. The group formally began claiming responsibility for attacks through its central media in 2019, aligning more openly with global jihadist networks. Operation Shujaa, initiated in November 2021, was designed to counter ADF activities on both sides of the Ugandan-DRC border.