Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) commandos, in collaboration with South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and Central African Republic (CAR) security forces, launched a successful offensive against three camps of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the Central African Republic. The operation, carried out east of Sam Ouanja, led to the complete destruction of the camps and the capture of valuable equipment.
The coordinated effort marks a major step in the ongoing efforts to dismantle the remnants of the LRA, a notorious rebel group led by Joseph Kony. The LRA, once responsible for widespread atrocities across parts of Uganda, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, has been significantly weakened in recent years but still poses a threat as small factions continue to take refuge in remote areas of the continent.
Military officials have confirmed that all three camps were successfully neutralized, and several items of equipment were seized during the operation. While details of the operation remain classified, the joint forces have vowed to continue pursuing any remaining LRA elements.
“The remnants of the LRA who are still taking refuge in CAR or elsewhere on the African continent will be hunted down relentlessly,” a UPDF spokesperson stated. “Unless they hand themselves in to the authorities for proper processing and rehabilitation, they will continue to be considered as criminals and will be treated accordingly.”
This operation underscores the ongoing commitment of regional forces to eliminate the threat posed by the LRA and to bring those responsible for years of violence and terror to justice. The call for surrender remains open to any LRA members willing to renounce violence and seek rehabilitation, but those who choose to remain at large will face the full force of the law.
The destruction of these camps is expected to further weaken the LRA’s capabilities and send a strong message to other insurgent groups operating in the region. The UPDF and its partners in SSPDF and CAR security forces remain vigilant and committed to restoring peace and stability in the region.
