Operation to Dismantle LRA Strongholds in Central African Republic
A recent joint operation, organized by the Ugandan People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) commandos, South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), and the army of the Central African Republic (CAR), resulted in the destruction of three camps belonging to the notorious Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the Central African Republic. The assault, which occurred east of Sam Ouandja, resulted in the capture of significant equipment, dealing a major blow to the LRA’s operational capabilities.
The LRA, headed by Joseph Kony, has been responsible for widespread human rights abuses, including massacres, abductions, and forced conscription of child soldiers. The recent operation signifies a significant step toward the total defeat of the LRA and Kony, as confirmed by UPDF spokesperson Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye.
The assault utilized advanced tactics and technology to catch the LRA off guard, as 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, resulting in significant damage to the group’s infrastructure.
The operation 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 individuals. Despite this, experts caution that Kony’s capture may still take time, given his knowledge of the terrain and ability to exploit regional instability. However, the relentless pursuit by UPDF, coupled with international efforts, continues to narrow his options, as evidenced by the recent attack that destroyed his three camps in CAR.
The recent assault comes shortly after the International Criminal Court (ICC) closed its investigation into crimes allegedly committed by the LRA. Kony, a fugitive with a notorious reputation, faces 12 counts of crimes against humanity and 21 counts of war crimes related to attacks in northern Uganda during 2003 and 2004. The charges include murder, enslavement, sexual enslavement, rape, and the forced enlistment of children, among other serious offenses.
In light of the recent operation’s success, LRA remnants in CAR are urged to surrender to authorities, as warned by Colonel Akiiki. This plea comes as Kony’s former lieutenant, Thomas Kwoyelo, faces charges at the International Criminal Court, indicating a continued effort to bring LRA members to justice.
The relentless pursuit of the LRA is evident in the heavy presence of UPDF units in Western Bahr el Ghazal State’s Raja County, as reported by Radio Tamazuj last week. The recent operation to dismantle LRA strongholds showcases the commitment of regional forces to put an end to the atrocities committed by the group, further diminishing their refuge in the region.
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