Joint forces from Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have rescued more than 200 civilians from captivity during a coordinated military operation in eastern DR Congo under Operation Shujaa.

The operation followed a raid on a major militant camp along the Epulu River, which military sources said was under the command of a senior figure known as “Mzee Mayor.”

Several militants were killed during the assault, and troops seized weapons and explosive materials. Officials indicated that the number of rescued civilians may rise as additional captives flee areas under militant control.

Many survivors have reached joint force positions in nearby locations after escaping amid sustained military pressure.

Medical teams reported that a significant number of those rescued were in critical condition, suffering from severe malnutrition, exhaustion, and untreated illnesses including malaria and respiratory infections.

Survivor accounts described abuses inside the camps, including forced labor, deprivation of food, and coercion affecting women and girls.

Despite the success of the operation, the broader security situation in eastern DR Congo remains volatile, with continued attacks by armed groups causing casualties and displacement.

Analysts say militant groups have adapted their tactics by moving deeper into remote areas to evade military operations.

Authorities have pointed to early signs of stabilization in some المناطق, including the reopening of schools and limited resumption of cross-border trade.

Operation Shujaa remains a key component of regional counterinsurgency efforts, with officials stressing that long-term stability will depend on sustained operations, humanitarian support, and governance reforms.