Ugandan and Congolese forces have rescued at least 200 civilians who had been held captive by the Allied Democratic Forces, an armed group linked to the Islamic State in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Ugandan military said Monday the captives were freed last week during a joint operation targeting rebel positions near the River Epulu in Ituri province.
According to a military statement, those rescued were found in poor physical condition after enduring prolonged abuse in captivity.
Many recounted harsh conditions, including lack of food, forced labor and punishment for disobedience, the statement said. Several appeared frail, suffering from untreated illnesses such as malaria, respiratory infections and extreme exhaustion.
The Allied Democratic Forces originated in Uganda in 1994, accusing the government of marginalizing Muslims before relocating to eastern Congo following sustained military pressure from Ugandan forces.
Over time, the group entrenched itself in the dense forests of eastern Congo, where it has carried out repeated attacks against civilians. It later pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, strengthening its profile as a regional security threat.
United Nations estimates indicate the group has killed thousands of civilians, often targeting villages in Ituri and North Kivu provinces. It has also been accused of abducting civilians, with women and girls frequently forced into marriages or servitude.
Joint operations intensify amid rising attacks
The rescue comes amid a surge in violence across eastern Congo, where multiple armed groups continue to operate, including the M23 rebel group, one of the most prominent actors in the region.
Attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces have intensified in recent months despite ongoing joint military operations by Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Earlier this month, at least 43 civilians were killed in an attack attributed to the group, underscoring the persistent threat it poses.
Analysts say the overlapping conflicts have created a complex security environment, complicating efforts by Congolese and regional forces to restore stability in the mineral-rich but volatile region.
The latest rescue operation forms part of intensified military efforts launched jointly by the two countries. The Ugandan People’s Defence Forces said several fighters were killed and weapons seized during the offensive near the River Epulu.
Military officials added that operations have expanded since the beginning of the year, including the capture of a significant rebel stronghold in February.
The sustained offensive has improved security in parts of eastern DRC, the military said, enabling some displaced communities to return home, schools to reopen and cross-border trade to resume.
Despite these gains, security experts warn that the Allied Democratic Forces remains capable of carrying out deadly attacks, stressing that continued coordination between regional forces will be critical to maintaining pressure on the group.
