The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent conducting peace keeping support mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has successfully foiled and recovered 120 cows from the suspected Nyatura Militia men operating.
Captain Kato Ahmad Hassan, the Spokesperson of the UPDF Contingent under the East African Regional Force (UGACON-EACRF), said the operation was successfully conducted following timely intelligence and close coordination with the local community of Buhimba village, approximately 9 kilometers from Kiwanja Town Council.
He said that the suspected Nyatura Militia men operating in the general areas of Kinyandoni, Bwito, Bwisha, Tongo, and Binza in Rutshuru territory have been wreaking havoc in the above areas.
“The rescue team was able to successfully thwart the theft of the animals and recovered the 120 heads of cattle easily with no exchange of gunfire during the pursuit of the militia men,” he said.
David Mujungu, one of the owners of the recovered animals, confirmed to the UPDF rescue team that the collective movement for change (CMC) Nyatura Militia group was behind the theft of his animals.
“Had the UPDF not responded in time, it would have marked the beginning of my poverty and subsequent suffering,” Mujungu narrated.
The locals thanked the UGACON-EACRF for the quick response during the rescue of the animals, adding that the militia men normally abduct people and ask for ransom from the relatives of the abductees, and if not paid in time, they are killed.
The Force reaffirmed their commitment, resolve, and determination towards the restoration of peace and stability and securing people’s lives and properties as per the East Regional Force mandate.
