In a tragic incident in north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, approximately 20 churchgoers lost their lives during a night vigil when armed militants linked to the Islamic State, specifically the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), stormed the town of Komanda. Local officials report that the attackers not only targeted worshippers but also vandalized nearby businesses, setting them ablaze.
Originating in Uganda during the 1990s, the ADF has transformed into a formidable force in DR Congo, frequently launching attacks on both religious and ethnic groups. This group is now a part of the Islamic State's Central African Province and collaborates with other factions across the continent, as reports suggest that nearly 90% of the Islamic State's activities are centered in Africa.
Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society leader in Komanda, indicated that search efforts are ongoing, and the death toll could rise above the current estimates. “We have learned of over 21 bodies discovered both inside and outside the church, alongside several homes that have been consumed by fire,” he stated. Father Aime Lokana Dhego, a local priest, confirmed the deaths of at least 31 members of the Eucharistic Crusade movement, with additional injuries reported and several people unaccounted for.
The UN-backed Radio Okapi reported a total death count of 43, while military officials confirmed at least 10. Despite previous attempts to curb ADF violence, including the deployment of Ugandan troops to assist Congolese forces, violence persists in the mineral-rich region of Ituri province, showcasing the desperate need for effective security measures against these escalating threats.
Originating in Uganda during the 1990s, the ADF has transformed into a formidable force in DR Congo, frequently launching attacks on both religious and ethnic groups. This group is now a part of the Islamic State's Central African Province and collaborates with other factions across the continent, as reports suggest that nearly 90% of the Islamic State's activities are centered in Africa.
Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society leader in Komanda, indicated that search efforts are ongoing, and the death toll could rise above the current estimates. “We have learned of over 21 bodies discovered both inside and outside the church, alongside several homes that have been consumed by fire,” he stated. Father Aime Lokana Dhego, a local priest, confirmed the deaths of at least 31 members of the Eucharistic Crusade movement, with additional injuries reported and several people unaccounted for.
The UN-backed Radio Okapi reported a total death count of 43, while military officials confirmed at least 10. Despite previous attempts to curb ADF violence, including the deployment of Ugandan troops to assist Congolese forces, violence persists in the mineral-rich region of Ituri province, showcasing the desperate need for effective security measures against these escalating threats.
