Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces reported a significant development in their ongoing efforts against the Islamist rebel Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The elusive ADF commander, Musa Kamusi, deemed a high-priority target on the army’s ‘Most Wanted’ list, met his end during a military operation within the confines of Kibale National Park, a rainforest nestled in western Uganda near the Democratic Republic of Congo border.
Col. Deo Akiiki, the Defence Deputy Spokesperson, shared the news, highlighting the successful neutralization of the ADF commander responsible for orchestrating two attacks in Kamwenge District.
“One of ADF commanders who attacked Kamwenge was put out of action in Kibale National Park today morning at 9:00 am,” remarked Akiiki. The operation yielded tangible results, with the recovery of weaponry, including a PK gun, two Improvised Explosive Devices, and ammunition.
Kamusi’s unit faced severe accusations, including the alleged killing of 37 students, a honeymooning couple from Britain and South Africa with their Ugandan guide, and ten farmers and bar customers near the national park on December 18. A splinter group, estimated to be between 5-8 members, continued to menace Kamwenge, mounting two attacks within a single week.
The most recent assault, transpiring on the night of December 25, involved unidentified assailants, believed to be affiliated with the ADF, setting ablaze a residence in Nyabitusi I Zone, Busingye Parish, Kamwenge sub-county. Tragically, three occupants, a woman, and her two grandchildren, succumbed to the flames. Adrien Nibgwabizi, 72, and juveniles Amon Niwalinda, aged five, and Mathias Byamukama, aged 13, lost their lives, while two others managed to escape before the attack.
Vincent Twesige, the Rwenzori East Police spokesperson, detailed the preliminary findings, indicating that four assailants, two armed with rifles, invaded Nyabitusi zone, looting livestock and property before resorting to arson. The assailants had previously targeted the cattle kraal of Reverend George Bwajojo, attempting to seize 50 heads of cattle.
This disturbing pattern of violence prompted swift action from the authorities. Defence Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye announced plans to recruit 1,440 Local Defence Unit (LDU) personnel in specific districts—Kyenjojo, Kitagwenda, Bunyangabu, Kamwenge, Kyegegwa, and Kasese. President Yoweri Museveni’s directive underscored the urgency of bolstering local defenses against ADF attacks, with recruitment slated to commence on December 27, 2023.
Recruitment Of Local Defence Personnel In Greater Rwenzori Sub-region And Areas Surrounding Kibale National Park https://t.co/SEewOMun4d
— Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (@MODVA_UPDF) December 26, 2023
