Kampala — UPDF forces Dec.16 rescued 72 former abducted children, killed three Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) rebels including notorious Commander Komakech in skirmishes in Pabbo, Amuru and Lamogi sub counties, Kilak County, Gulu.

The skirmishes, which were still going yesterday in Omaroawobi (Pabbo), Okunggedi (Amuru), Parabongo (Lamogi), between 30-45 kms North-West of Gulu.

Two rebels were captured, 2 SMG rifles and 278 loose ammunition recovered. Another abducted child reported with 2 anti-personnel mines at Lalogi sub-county in Omoro, 48 kms east of Gulu.

The UPDF suffered one injury in critical condition.

Armored cars and helicopter gunship whose bombings could be heard in town most of the afternoon backed the operation against the rebels.

PRO, Lt. Paddy Ankunda told The Monitor that the operation has been a "great harvest".

" Komakech has been a notorious commander under Matata. It is a great harvest to rescue 72 in a single day."

Lt. Ankunda said the rebels now share one mug of boiled maize grains between four people per day.

" They are suffering with no food, no medicine nor other supplies."

On security along Gulu-Kitgum road, Ankunda blamed the lorry driver, which was shot at Dec.14 for having foiled UPDF ambush at the same spot. He said the army has occupied places like Angagura, Laguti and Okinga in efforts to secure Kitgum road.