D.R.C (URN)
More than 60 suspected members of the Allied Democratic Forces-ADF surrendered to government forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo when Uganda Peoples Defence Forces-UPDF and the DRC forces launched a joint operation against the militant group on Tuesday.
The operation code-named military Suja is intended to drive the militants out of their bases, according to Ugandan officials. The UPDF Deputy Spokesperson Lt. Col Ronald Kakurungu says more than 16 fighters from the ADF have surrendered following intense military assault on their bases and others surrendered to benefit from the government amnesty.
Without divulging details of where they are being kept, Kakurungu explained that UPDF and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo-FARDC are cognizant that most people in the ADF are there against their will. He says that both forces are encouraging ADF members to surrender.
Kakurungu notes that the defection is a boost in their efforts to end the violence and military threats against the population in the two countries. He adds that UPDF has now deployed ground forces and they believe this will minimize causalities especially on those who would be part of the group unwillingness.
The operations overall commander Maj. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga said on Friday that the offensive operation launched against the Allied Democratic Forces-ADF in the Democratic Republic of Congo will only come to an end when the group is completely defeated.
