news 20 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UPDF and FARDC Rescue Over 200 Teens from ADF Camp in Eastern DRC
Uganda's UPDF and DRC's FARDC jointly freed more than 200 civilians aged 14-19 from an ADF camp during a major offensive along River Epulu. The operation neutralized fighters, seized weapons, and underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle the militia. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-says-over-200-civilians-rescued-from-adf-captivity-in-drc-5429694
Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) alongside the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) conducted a successful joint operation on April 19, rescuing over 200 abducted civilians from an ADF camp in eastern DRC.
The raid targeted a site commanded by Ssebagala, alias Mzee Mayor, along River Epulu. UPDF reported killing several ADF militants and recovering a significant weapons cache.
Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, Joint Commander of Operation Shujaa—launched in late 2021—addressed the victims at Mungamba, assuring them of no detention and swift family reunions via authorities. The group, mostly boys and girls aged 14-19, endured severe hardships like starvation, forced labor, and brutal punishments.
Many appeared weakened by malaria, respiratory issues, and exhaustion, per military observations.
The offensive extended to River Ituri, thwarting ADF crossings. Mugerwa noted rising defections and escapes to joint force sites amid intensified pressure.
Since January 2026, operations have yielded key successes, including overrunning a Musa Baluku-linked camp in February. These efforts have boosted security, allowing community returns, school reopenings, and renewed Uganda-DRC trade.