The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have agreed to intensify efforts against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Ituri Province.
The agreement was reached during a joint security meeting at FARDC headquarters in Bunia.
The UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa Commander, Major General Stephen Mugerwa, reported that troops had recently killed one rebel, recovered a firearm and improvised explosive device materials, and rescued four abducted people.
He called for targeted action against ADF leaders Abwakasi, Musa Baruku and Mayor Ssebagala, with the aim of capturing or neutralising them.
FARDC representative Brigadier Gen Bonney credited Uganda’s military support with helping recover areas previously occupied by rebels and allowing civilians to resume daily activities with fewer disruptions. He urged troops from both countries to maintain effective coordination to consolidate security gains.
UPDF’s Colonel Turyabe called for joint training to improve coordination and effectiveness, and underscored the importance of engaging local communities in efforts to address rebel activity.
The meeting was attended by senior officers from both UPDF and FARDC.
