The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has successfully rescued another 45 former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) fighters from South Darfur in Sudan, marking a significant step in ongoing efforts to bring home Ugandans who were abducted during the insurgency. The latest rescue operation brings the total number of former LRA fighters and abductees rescued over the past month to 70.
According to the Chief of Military Intelligence, Major General Richard Otto, the returnees are expected to arrive in Uganda within the next 48 hours. He explained that the former abductees are currently in Wau, South Sudan, and are being transported to Juba before being airlifted to Gulu Airfield. Their arrival is expected to bring relief to families who have spent years waiting for news about their loved ones.
Maj Gen Otto disclosed the development while attending the burial of veteran broadcaster Johnny Baptist Oryema in Gulu City. He noted that the rescue operation is part of continued efforts by the UPDF and its partners to trace and safely return Ugandans who remained stranded in conflict-affected areas long after the LRA insurgency had weakened.
Many of the rescued individuals were abducted by the LRA years ago and forced into the rebel group during one of the darkest periods in northern Uganda’s history. Some have spent decades away from their families, living under difficult conditions in remote areas across Central and East Africa. Their return represents a new beginning and an opportunity to reconnect with their communities.
The latest rescue highlights the UPDF’s commitment to ensuring that former abductees are located, protected, and reintegrated into society. Authorities are expected to provide the returnees with support services, including medical care, counseling, and rehabilitation programs to help them adjust to civilian life after years of hardship.
Community leaders and families in northern Uganda have welcomed the news, describing it as a sign of hope and healing for a region that suffered greatly during the LRA conflict. The return of the former fighters and abductees is expected to contribute to ongoing reconciliation efforts and help bring closure to many families who have lived with uncertainty for years.
As Uganda continues to recover from the legacy of the LRA insurgency, each successful rescue operation serves as a reminder that the search for those still missing has not ended. The arrival of the 45 former fighters will not only reunite families but also strengthen efforts to promote peace, healing, and national unity.
