UPDF Engages CODECO Militia in DRC Amidst Escalating Violence
The UPDF has launched a military operation in Mahagi, DRC, against CODECO and ADF after a massacre that claimed at least 52 lives. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has vowed to eradicate these militias, urging them to surrender. This military escalation aims to secure the region and reflects Uganda’s strategic interests in eastern DRC, with potential implications for broader regional security.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have initiated a military campaign in Mahagi, located in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), targeting the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) militia and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). This decisive action follows a horrific CODECO massacre in February 2025 that resulted in the deaths of at least 52 individuals in Djugu, Ituri Province, intensifying demands for urgent intervention against the armed group.
The massacre involved CODECO militants attacking three villages in Djugu, leading to brutal civilian killings and the destruction of approximately 30 homes. While civil society sources report 52 deaths and several injuries, other local accounts suggest the fatalities could be as high as 80. In light of these atrocities, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, has vowed to dismantle CODECO and gave an ultimatum to its fighters to surrender or face total annihilation.
General Kainerugaba expressed his unwavering commitment to combatting CODECO and ADF through social media statements. He remarked, “I have said it before, our enemies in DRC are ADF and CODECO! We shall hunt them until the end of time!!” He further stated that operations would soon capture key territories plagued by CODECO, urging militia fighters to surrender before facing imminent assault: “When our attack starts you will be massacred!!”
Ugandan troops have since moved into Mahagi, strategically positioning themselves for further actions towards Djugu and Fataki, areas notorious for CODECO’s violence against civilians. The Congolese Army (FARDC) has struggled to manage CODECO’s operations, which date back to 2014 and predominantly involve targeted violence against the Hema community under the guise of tribal defense.
In addition to military action, General Kainerugaba’s statements reveal Uganda’s broader intentions within the region, aiming for comprehensive control over the eastern DRC border. He declared, “Well, now the UPDF is going to capture the entire DRC border with Uganda. From Lubero north! That is our sphere of influence. NOTHING will happen there without our permission.”
As UPDF consolidates its presence in Mahagi, subsequent operations are expected to result in direct confrontations with CODECO fighters in Djugu and Fataki. General Kainerugaba has called for national support, urging the public to pray for their troops: “Please pray for our brave troops who are even now advancing on Mahagi. God bless His Army, UPDF, forever!!”
UPDF’s evolving military posture in eastern DRC highlights a critical phase in the ongoing struggle against CODECO and ADF. This aggressive stance signifies a potential shift in the security dynamics within the Great Lakes region, with Djugu and Fataki now firmly within UPDF’s operational focus.
The involvement of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces in Mahagi marks a significant escalation in military efforts against CODECO and ADF. Following a tragic massacre that triggered widespread outrage, General Kainerugaba has made strong commitments to eradicate these armed groups. This initiative, coupled with assertions of Uganda’s strategic goals, highlights a new chapter in the security landscape of the Great Lakes region, with direct implications for civilian safety and regional stability.
Original Source: chimpreports.com