A joint operation between the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Congolese Army (FARDC), codenamed Operation Shujaa, rescued 40 people, including women and children, from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) on Monday after fierce fighting in Biakato, Ituri Province.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Maj. Bilal Katamba, the Mountain Division, and Operation Shujaa spokesperson, the joint forces also recovered nine firearms, including eight submachine guns, one PKM, six walkie-talkies, several rounds of ammunition, magazines, and other items such as human drugs during the confrontation.
The joint forces reportedly neutralized 27 rebels and injured several others. Maj. Katamba noted that one soldier from the joint forces sustained a leg injury during the battle. The injured soldier, along with the rescued individuals, was flown to the UPDF Mountain Division Headquarters at Muhooti Hospital for medical attention.
According to the statement, 19 of the rescued individuals are Ugandans, hailing from areas such as Kyazanga, Mayuge, Nyanama, Magamaga, and other locations. Earlier this month, the joint forces also rescued 10 people after a confrontation with ADF rebels near River Asefu in North Kivu Province.