Four people tragically lost their lives and another was injured during a clash between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the Lord’s Resistance Army (ADF), as well as the Ugandan Army ( UPDF), last Tuesday in Makwangi, in Mambasa territory.
According to local sources, the FARDC were on patrol in the depths of the forest when the population alerted them to the presence of ADF rebels in the farmers’ fields. The ADF were apparently looking for a way to reach national road number 4 in order to resupply themselves with different products.
A group of farmers met the ADF rebels in the fields and immediately informed the joint FARDC-UPDF forces, as indicated by Marie-Noelle Anotane, territorial coordinator of civil society.
During the clashes, three rebels were killed and a FARDC soldier unfortunately succumbed to his wounds. Another FARDC soldier was injured but is out of danger, according to the administrator of the Mambasa territory.
Civil society says ADF rebels have been circulating in the area for several weeks, fleeing tracking operations carried out by the Congolese armed forces and the Ugandan army.
This tragic incident is a reminder of the ongoing security challenges the region faces. The FARDC and UPDF are engaged in a fierce fight against rebel groups with the aim of restoring peace and stability to the region.
Nevertheless, it is important to emphasize that efforts to sustainably resolve security challenges in the region cannot be focused solely on military operations. It is necessary to accompany these actions with initiatives for socio-economic development, the fight against poverty and capacity building of local institutions.
In addition, it is essential to strengthen regional and international cooperation to effectively combat rebel groups and prevent their infiltration into neighboring countries. Countries in the region must work together to share intelligence, coordinate their actions and strengthen their borders to prevent the spread of instability and terrorism.
In conclusion, this clash between the FARDC, the ADF and the UPDF in Makwangi highlights the complexity of the security situation in the region. It is crucial to continue investing in comprehensive approaches that integrate military measures, socio-economic development actions and strengthened regional cooperation. Only in this way can we hope for lasting peace and long-term stability in the Mambasa region.