Over 40 killed in DR Congo attack linked to IS Terrorists

Over 40 killed in DR Congo attack linked to IS Terrorists
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More than 40 people were killed in an attack by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an IS affiliate, in Komanda, northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), BBC reported. Most victims were worshippers attending a night vigil at a church, including nine children. Shops and businesses nearby were looted and set on fire.

The ADF, originally from Uganda in the 1990s, now operates mainly in DR Congo and has become part of Islamic State’s Central African Province. Research shows nearly 90% of Islamic State’s operations are carried out by African affiliates.

The UN peacekeeping mission, Monusco, confirmed at least 43 deaths, including women, men, and children. Monusco’s deputy chief condemned the attack as a violation of human rights and international law.

The Congolese military reported that victims were killed with machetes and described the attack as an act of terror against defenseless civilians. Lt. Jules Ngongo, army spokesman in Ituri province, said the attack aimed to divert attention from ongoing joint military operations with Ugandan forces targeting the ADF.

Despite Ugandan troops’ involvement since 2021 to help combat the group, attacks continue in the mineral-rich Ituri province, which has long been plagued by armed conflict. Monusco recently warned of a resurgence of violence following earlier deadly ADF attacks in July.