Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) commandos have launched a targeted assault on bases belonging to Joseph Kony’s Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the Central African Republic (CAR).
This operation aims to neutralize one of Africa’s most notorious warlords.
The strike is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle the LRA, a group infamous for its brutal tactics and abductions across Central Africa.
The UPDF, known for its specialized counter-insurgency capabilities, has been pursuing Kony and his dwindling forces for years.
This recent operation is a key part of a broader regional effort to end Kony’s reign of terror, which has spanned over three decades.
According to Deputy UPDF spokesperson, Col. Deo Akiiki, the commandos successfully infiltrated and attacked multiple LRA strongholds in the dense forests of CAR, inflicting significant damage on the group’s infrastructure.
“UPDF, in conjunction with South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and CAR security forces, launched an operation against three camps of LRA remnants in CAR, east of Sam Ouandja. The three camps were destroyed, and equipment was captured,” Akiiki said.
UPDF officials have stated that the assault has weakened the LRA’s ability to regroup and launch attacks, further isolating Kony, who remains one of the International Criminal Court’s most wanted men.
Colonel Akiiki confirmed the operation’s success, stating, “Our commandos executed the mission with precision, and we believe this will further degrade the LRA’s capabilities.”
He added, “It is wise for them to surrender to authorities for proper processing and rehabilitation, as we have done with other remnants because there is no shortcut.”
Despite the significant blow dealt to the LRA, experts caution that Kony’s capture may still take time. His knowledge of the terrain and ability to exploit regional instability have allowed him to evade capture for years.
However, the UPDF’s relentless pursuit, coupled with international efforts, continues to narrow his options. The latest attack, which destroyed his three camps in CAR, further diminishes his refuge.
“These LRA remnants still taking refuge in CAR are advised to surrender to authorities, or else they are not safe anywhere on this continent,” Akiiki warned.
As the operation continues, the international community remains hopeful that Kony’s capture will bring closure to the countless victims of his atrocities and finally end the LRA’s devastating impact on Central Africa.
This attack comes as his former lieutenant, Thomas Kwoyelo, faces charges at the International Criminal Court.
