Congolese and Ugandan troops have successfully rescued 23 women and minors who were abducted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group, according to a joint military statement released on Saturday.
The daring operation took place near the Malibongo River in the eastern Congolese province of Ituri, following intense clashes with ADF fighters.
Bilal Katamba, spokesperson for Uganda’s military Mountain Division, confirmed the successful rescue mission.
The rescued individuals, including 16 women and seven minors, were transported to the Ugandan army’s tactical headquarters in Luna, Ituri Province.
Among the minors were three critically malnourished infants under the age of one.
Medical teams are currently providing urgent care to save their lives, while their mothers are also receiving necessary medical treatment.
The joint military offensive against the ADF was launched in 2021 with the aim of eliminating the rebel group, which has been active in the region for decades.
Originally formed in Uganda to oppose President Yoweri Museveni, the ADF has since pledged allegiance to the Daesh/ISIS terror group, posing a significant threat to regional security.