By Spy Uganda
At least 50 civilians have been killed in a series of attacks attributed to suspected Allied Democratic Forces rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, raising fresh concerns about security and humanitarian conditions in the region.
According to reports by Radio Okapi, the killings occurred between March 9 and March 15 in the localities of Muchacha and Babesua in Mambasa territory, Ituri province. Civil society sources cited by the broadcaster said 35 people were killed at a gold mining site in Muchacha, while 15 others lost their lives in Babesua.
The attacks have been blamed on the Allied Democratic Forces, an armed group that has operated in eastern Congo for years and is linked to Islamic State. The group has been responsible for numerous violent incidents targeting civilians in the region.
In addition to the killings, the assailants reportedly looted property, destroyed homes and set several houses on fire, further deepening the crisis for local communities. The violence has forced dozens of residents to flee, particularly along National Road 4, separating families and increasing the number of displaced people.
The renewed attacks come despite ongoing joint military operations launched in 2021 by Congolese and Ugandan forces aimed at neutralizing ADF fighters and restoring stability in the region.
Civil society organizations in Ituri have called on the Congolese government to urgently strengthen security measures and address the worsening humanitarian situation. They stressed the need to reestablish state authority in affected areas and protect vulnerable populations.
The government has already condemned the recent attacks, particularly those targeting mining sites, and pledged to take action against the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has expressed deep concern over the continued violence in Ituri. The agency warned that displacement sites are becoming increasingly overcrowded as more people flee insecurity, putting additional strain on already limited resources.
The latest killings highlight the persistent threat posed by armed groups in eastern Congo and the ongoing challenges in securing the region despite military efforts.
