Over 200 Civilians Rescued from ADF's Captivity in DR Congo

Mon Apr 20 2026 20:03:33 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A major military operation leads to the rescue of over 200 hostages, including children, from an Islamic State-linked group in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a significant operation involving Ugandan and Congolese forces, more than 200 civilians held by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been freed. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the ADF, a group linked to the Islamic State that has been involved in serious human rights violations and attacks in the region.

In a successful military operation, over 200 civilians have been rescued from captivity in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo by armed forces from Uganda. This operation targeted a camp controlled by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a group with ties to the Islamic State.

Among the freed hostages were children, with the youngest reported to be a 14-year-old girl. Many of those freed described horrific conditions during their captivity, citing instances of forced labor, lack of food, and severe punishment for disobedience.

The ADF originated in Uganda in the 1990s and has been responsible for numerous attacks and abductions in the region. Following a joint military offensive by Uganda and DR Congo initiated in 2021, the ADF continues to pose a significant threat, particularly in eastern DR Congo, where it has historically strengthened its presence.

Reports indicate that upon their rescue, several hostages exhibited signs of distress, with some suffering from malaria and other health issues attributed to their time in captivity, often spent under severe hardships.

Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, leading the joint mission, assured the rescued individuals that they are considered victims of abduction and will be reintegrated with their families soon. The operation also resulted in the death of several ADF fighters and the recovery of a cache of weapons, although details on casualties among Ugandan or Congolese troops remain unclear.

Despite ongoing operations, sightings and actions by ADF rebels have seen a resurgence in both Uganda and the DR Congo, contributing to a dire situation for many civilians caught in the conflict. A 2024 survey noted that the ADF was responsible for over half of civilian deaths in the conflict-ridden area.

Human rights organizations continue to shed light on the ADF's rampant violence and abductions, emphasizing the need for ongoing military action and international support to protect innocent civilians.