The Ugandan army has deployed forces to Mahagi, a town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
It aims to combat local armed groups, specifically the Codeco militia, amidst escalating violence.
Defense spokesperson Felix Kulayigye confirmed the deployment, stating Ugandan troops are now in control of the town.
The Congolese army requested Ugandan assistance following reported massacres of civilians attributed to Codeco.
The recent violence, including a February 10th attack that claimed at least 51 lives, prompted the intervention.
Mahagi is located within Ituri province, bordering Uganda, and the Codeco militia claims to defend the Lendu community against the Hema community.
Uganda already maintains a significant troop presence in other parts of Ituri, and recently announced control of the provincial capital, Bunia.
The region is adjacent to North and South Kivu, areas under M23 rebel control, fueled by Rwandan support.
Analysts express concern that the increased military presence of Uganda and Rwanda may trigger a wider conflict, reminiscent of the devastating Second Congo War.
