In a dramatic encounter on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers on routine patrol were attacked by armed militants in Ituri, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The assault, which occurred at approximately 11:00 am, involved assailants suspected to be rogue FARDC elements allied with the ultra-violent CODECO militia.
In Ituri Province, UPDF Patrol Comes Under Fire from CODECO-Linked Militants. Eyewitness reports indicate that the patrol was ambushed while moving through a strategic area where CODECO has historically operated. The reasons for the attack are not yet fully clear, but the UPDF unit responded immediately, returning fire and neutralizing some of the attackers. No UPDF casualties were reported, highlighting the troops’ training and readiness.
CODECO Militants Target UPDF Soldiers in Eastern DRC. The attack is part of ongoing attempts by CODECO to resist the continued UPDF presence in the region. The militia, notorious for massacres against civilians including women and children, has suffered severe degradation due to persistent operations by UPDF and FARDC forces. Despite losses, CODECO remains a threat, trying to recruit rogue elements from FARDC to bolster its ranks.
UPDF officials emphasized that the collaboration between Uganda’s forces and FARDC remains strong and operationally effective. The joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and coordinated operations have disrupted CODECO networks, limited recruitment, and reduced attacks on civilians. Both forces remain committed to stabilizing Ituri Province and other volatile areas in eastern DRC.
The region has been plagued by militia violence for years, with CODECO responsible for widespread killings, village raids, and terror campaigns. The UPDF’s presence has significantly reduced the militia’s ability to operate freely, but sporadic attacks like this one demonstrate that vigilance is still required.
During Wednesday’s ambush, the UPDF soldiers’ quick reaction prevented the militants from causing harm to civilians or seizing control of key areas. The patrol’s effectiveness underscores the training, discipline, and operational preparedness of Uganda’s forces deployed in conflict-prone regions.
Local sources confirm that CODECO’s attacks are increasingly desperate. The group has been weakened by ongoing joint operations but continues to seek alliances with rogue FARDC elements. These temporary partnerships are intended to challenge the security presence and intimidate local populations.
The UPDF noted that the neutralization of the attackers was part of a broader strategy to maintain security and protect civilians. The forces continue to patrol major routes, secure villages, and engage in proactive operations to prevent militant regrouping or attacks.
Military analysts describe CODECO as a criminal and terrorist enterprise with limited capacity after months of continuous pressure from UPDF-FARDC operations. Although weakened, the group’s sporadic attacks are meant to maintain relevance, spread fear, and test the resilience of security forces.
The UPDF-FARDC partnership has been key in preventing CODECO from regaining control over territories in Ituri. Joint patrols, community engagement, and intelligence-led operations have been instrumental in reducing the militia’s capacity to terrorize civilians.
Civilians in Ituri have expressed cautious relief at the presence of UPDF and FARDC forces. Reports indicate that villagers feel safer and more confident traveling along major routes, although they remain wary of sudden attacks from small militant groups.
Officials stressed that such attacks, while dangerous, highlight the effectiveness of proactive security measures. The ability of UPDF soldiers to respond quickly and neutralize threats before they escalate demonstrates the value of constant patrols and disciplined forces in maintaining regional stability.
UPDF commanders reiterated that the joint operation with FARDC is not just about military engagement but also about safeguarding civilians and enabling development. Stability allows for humanitarian work, schooling, and commerce to resume safely in previously terrorized areas.
Observers note that CODECO’s continued presence, albeit weakened, serves as a reminder that militias adapt quickly to losses. They exploit local grievances and attempt to recruit disillusioned individuals from FARDC or local communities, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vigilance.
The UPDF also highlighted the strategic significance of Ituri, where controlling transport routes and villages prevents CODECO from reestablishing operational bases. Maintaining patrols, intelligence gathering, and rapid response capabilities remain central to their mission.
Security experts recommend continuous collaboration between UPDF, FARDC, and local communities to ensure that CODECO cannot exploit gaps in security. Community support and local intelligence are key to isolating militants and preventing recruitment.
The Ituri attack illustrates the challenges of peacekeeping in eastern DRC, where multiple armed groups, including ADF, Mai-Mai factions, and CODECO, operate. UPDF’s disciplined response sends a strong message that armed attacks on patrols will be met with decisive force.
Despite sporadic attacks, the overall outlook remains positive. CODECO’s ability to operate has been drastically reduced, and the joint presence of UPDF and FARDC has created safer conditions for civilians and humanitarian actors in the region.
Officials have urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities and to cooperate with security forces to maintain peace. The attack underscores the ongoing need for vigilance but also demonstrates the effectiveness of joint security operations in protecting communities.
Finally, the UPDF’s repulsion of the CODECO-affiliated militants reinforces their commitment to regional stability and highlights the strength of Uganda’s military in collaboration with FARDC. Their continued presence in Ituri ensures that civilian populations remain protected and that the remnants of militant networks cannot regroup to threaten peace.
