DRC: At least 10 dead and several kidnapped in an ADF attack
3 min read
At least 10 people have been killed and several others kidnapped in an attack by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group linked to the Islamic State, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a military spokesperson confirmed on Monday. The assault occurred late Sunday night in the Batangi-Mbau area of North Kivu province, where ADF rebels attacked civilians, set fire to several homes, and abducted an unknown number of individuals.
The spokesperson, Mak Hazukay, stated that the attack was part of a growing trend of violence by the ADF in the region, which has been marred by decades of armed conflict. “We call on the population to remain vigilant, and we assure them that we will drive the enemy out of our territory,” Hazukay added. The attack is one of many by the ADF, which has increasingly targeted both civilians and military personnel in its quest to control territory and resources.
Eastern DRC, particularly North Kivu, has long been a hotspot for armed violence, with over 120 different militant groups competing for power, land, and control of the region’s valuable mineral resources. Many of these groups also attempt to protect their communities, but the violence has resulted in numerous massacres. The ongoing instability has caused a massive displacement crisis, with nearly 7 million people fleeing their homes in search of safety.
The ADF, which has been operating in the region for years, has been one of the most notorious and deadly groups. They have been responsible for hundreds of deaths, as well as the abduction of civilians, including children. Their attacks have escalated in recent years, with increasing violence in North Kivu and neighboring areas. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have condemned the ADF’s actions, accusing the group of committing atrocities such as killings, abductions, and sexual violence.
The group’s presence in the region is part of a larger pattern of extremism linked to the Islamic State (IS), and their attacks have spread to other areas beyond North Kivu, including the city of Goma, the main urban center in eastern DRC. The violence has left thousands of civilians caught in the crossfire, as the government and military struggle to regain control over the vast and volatile region.
Earlier this month, the ADF carried out another deadly attack in a North Kivu village, killing at least 13 people. This attack further highlights the worsening security situation in the region, as armed groups continue to operate with impunity, targeting civilians and military personnel alike.
The government of the DRC, along with international organizations and humanitarian agencies, is facing significant challenges in addressing the violence and providing aid to displaced populations. Despite military operations against the ADF and other armed groups, the situation remains volatile, and efforts to restore peace and stability have been largely unsuccessful.
The international community has called for increased support for the DRC government and security forces, as well as for greater attention to the humanitarian crisis in the region. However, the ongoing violence poses a serious challenge to peacekeeping efforts, as the ADF and other extremist groups show no signs of slowing down.
In response to the latest attacks, authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces to prevent further violence. The government has pledged to continue its efforts to combat the ADF and restore order in the affected areas. However, with the ADF’s increasing reach and brutal tactics, it remains unclear when peace will be restored to the region, or how many more lives will be lost in the meantime.
About The Author
