Operation Shujaa: a major victory in the fight against ADF rebels in the Beni region
Since the end of November 2021, the joint military operation “Shujaa”, led by the Ugandan army (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), has been a resounding success in the fight against the rebels of the Allied Democratic Force (ADF) in the Beni region, North Kivu.
According to the UPDF command, this rebellion is about to become history. General Dick Olum, commander of the UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, said last Wednesday that the operation had significantly weakened the ADF’s ability to wage war. “We have reduced their ability to provoke conflict, we have exhausted their manpower, their armaments and their morale is at an all-time low,” he said.
The results achieved by the joint forces are impressive. They succeeded in putting out of action 548 ADF fighters, capturing 50 of them alive and obtaining the surrender of 31 others after intense pressure. In addition, they seized a set of weapons and equipment, including 151 firearms, military radios, magazines and ammunition.
But Operation Shujaa is not limited to simply neutralizing the rebels. The joint forces also rescued 156 people, including women and children. The latter, often in a precarious state of health, are currently receiving medical care in Uganda Defense Force health facilities.
General Olum points out that the figures announced represent only what was recorded and recovered by the UPDF. The FARDC, meanwhile, also possess weapons and equipment captured from the ADF in the DRC, meaning the results could be even greater.
Operation Shujaa undeniably marked a major turning point in the fight against ADF rebels in the Beni region. The successes achieved testify to the commitment and determination of the joint forces to put an end to this security threat that has been raging for decades.
It is important to emphasize that this military operation is an example of cross-border collaboration and regional cooperation, essential to guarantee security and stability in the Great Lakes region.
In conclusion, Operation Shujaa represents a crucial victory in the fight against ADF rebels in the Beni region. The results achieved by the joint forces demonstrate their strong commitment to ridding the region of this terrorist threat. However, there is still work to be done to consolidate these advances and ensure lasting peace in the region