Rebellious assault claims lives of at least 60 individuals during funeral service in Congo's eastern region
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the international community, including joint operations by the Congolese and Ugandan armed forces, are working tirelessly to combat the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group affiliated with the Islamic State group. However, the identities of the leaders directing these operations remain unclear.
Recent attacks by the ADF have resulted in a significant loss of life and displacement of people in the eastern region, where several other conflicts are unfolding. The most devastating attack took place overnight in Lubero territory, North Kivu, where the ADF murdered at least 60 civilians. One survivor, who requested anonymity out of fear of reprisal, described hearing people screaming and fainting due to the violence.
The attack occurred after residents had gathered at a burial. The attackers, armed with machetes, wreaked havoc among the unsuspecting crowd. The final toll is not yet known due to ongoing counting of the number of beheaded people, according to local administrator Col. Alain Kiwewa.
In addition to the attack in Lubero territory, the ADF carried out two large-scale attacks in Ituri province in July, killing at least 34 in Komanda and 66 in Irumu. Another attack was reported later in Beni territory, resulting in at least 18 deaths. These attacks have led to the displacement of people, as many villagers are being called to identify the bodies from the attacks in Oicha.
The ADF's attacks have contributed to the ongoing instability and conflicts in the eastern region of Congo. The region is currently grappling with the ongoing conflict between the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel groups and the central government. The government is battling multiple armed groups across different fronts, which has taken troops away from border villages, leaving them vulnerable to ADF attacks.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, stated that the ADF has "taken advantage of the security vacuum" in Geneva on Tuesday. The ADF's actions have caused fear and uncertainty among the local population, exacerbating the already precarious situation in the region.
As the international community continues to work towards finding a solution to the ongoing violence in the eastern region of Congo, it is crucial that the identities of the leaders directing the ADF are uncovered and that the group is held accountable for their actions. The lives and safety of the Congolese people depend on it.
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