Ugandan Army Claims Victory Over CODECO Militia in DR Congo

Ugandan Army Claims Victory Over CODECO Militia in DR Congo

On July 27, 2025, the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) announced the successful capture of a key stronghold belonging to the CODECO militia in Ituri Province, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. This significant development follows the Ugandan army's recent operations against various armed groups in the region.

Col. Chris Magezi, a spokesperson for the UPDF, confirmed the capture via social media, highlighting the long-standing violence perpetrated by CODECO, which has been linked to numerous atrocities against local populations, particularly targeting the HEMA community. The militia has faced international sanctions due to its involvement in horrific ethnic cleansing campaigns.

"This operation has brought renewed hope to communities that have endured years of violence," Magezi stated. "The town of Djugu served as CODECO's primary operational base, from which they coordinated their attacks. Its capture marks a turning point in our efforts to restore peace in the area."

The UPDF's ongoing campaign, dubbed Operation ‘Mlinzi wa Wanyonge’ or ‘Operation Protection of the Weak,’ aims to dismantle the influence of militias like CODECO and the ADF, another group notorious for its violent actions in the region. Since deploying troops to Ituri in 2021, the UPDF has made significant strides in countering militia activities, including recent successes against the ADF.

The situation in Ituri remains complex, with the local population having suffered greatly from the ongoing violence. The UPDF's actions are seen as a crucial step toward stabilizing the region and providing security for the affected communities.