Brave Rescue: Over 200 Civilians Freed from IS-Linked Captivity in DR Congo

Mon Apr 20 2026 18:45:10 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a remarkable military operation, over 200 civilians, including children, were freed from an armed group in the Democratic Republic of Congo linked to the Islamic State. This joint effort by Ugandan and Congolese forces highlights ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and protect innocent lives in the region.

More than 200 civilians, including a 14-year-old girl, were rescued from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an IS-linked group, in a Ugandan-led military operation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The captives described severe conditions in captivity, suffering from malnutrition and ailments like malaria. Uganda and DR Congo are continuing their military efforts against the ADF, which has been responsible for widespread abductions in the area.

More than 200 civilians held captive in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo by an armed group linked to the Islamic State have been rescued in an army operation, the military in neighbouring Uganda has said.

Ugandan soldiers, working with their Congolese counterparts, targeted a camp controlled by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group that has its origins in Uganda.

Children were among those freed, the youngest being a 14-year-old girl.

The ADF is known for its harsh treatment of hostages, and the rescued civilians described their captivity as filled with severe hardships, including forced labor and punishments for disobedience. Many appeared frail, suffering from various ailments.

Military leaders reassured the rescued individuals that they were no longer detained but victims of abduction. As the operations against the ADF continue, it is hoped that further actions will reduce the group's threat to civilians in the region.