More than 200 civilians have been rescued from captivity following a major joint military offensive by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) against an Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) camp in eastern DR Congo.

The operation targeted a key ADF stronghold located along River Epulu, which was under the command of a notorious rebel leader identified as Ssebagala, also known as Mzee Mayor. During the offensive, several ADF fighters were killed and a cache of weapons was recovered, dealing a significant blow to the group’s operations in the area.

The rescued civilians were found in dire conditions after enduring prolonged captivity. Many reported suffering from lack of food, forced labour, and harsh punishments for disobedience. Health conditions among the victims were alarming, with several individuals showing signs of severe weakness and untreated illnesses such as malaria and respiratory infections.

Among those rescued was a 14-year-old girl, the youngest victim, while the oldest was a 19-year-old boy. However, some adults were also among the group, including a 41-year-old woman who expressed gratitude to the joint forces for saving her life and restoring hope of returning home.

Speaking to the survivors at Mungamba, the Overall Joint Commander of Operation Shujaa, Major General Stephen Mugerwa, reassured them that they were not under detention but victims of abduction. He emphasized that arrangements would be made to hand them over to the relevant authorities to facilitate reunification with their families.

The offensive forms part of the ongoing Operation Shujaa, a joint military campaign launched in November 2021 to eliminate the ADF insurgency, which has been responsible for deadly attacks in both eastern DR Congo and Uganda.

Military pressure on ADF positions has intensified since January 2026, leading to increased success on the battlefield. In February, joint forces overran a major ADF camp linked to commander Musa Baluku, recovering weapons, improvised explosive devices, and other critical equipment.

Additional operations along River Ituri have also disrupted insurgent movements, with fighters intercepted while attempting to cross. The sustained pressure has forced many captives to escape, with dozens reporting to joint force locations including Lolwa, Kyndala Kundala, and Babungwe.

Authorities say the continued offensives have contributed to improved security in parts of eastern DR Congo. Displaced communities have begun returning home, schools are reopening, and cross-border trade between Uganda and the DRC is gradually resuming.

The latest rescue highlights ongoing efforts by joint forces to dismantle ADF networks and restore stability in the region, although security operations remain active as troops pursue remaining insurgent elements.