IS-linked rebels kill 89 civilians in east Congo attacks, UN force says

IS-linked rebels kill 89 civilians in east Congo attacks, UN force says
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Islamic State-affiliated rebels have killed 89 civilians in a series of attacks across Lubero territory in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Reuters reported citing the U.N. peacekeeping mission MONUSCO.

The assaults, attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), took place in several areas of North Kivu province between November 13 and 19. The dead include at least 20 women and an unknown number of children.

In one of the worst incidents, ADF fighters raided a Catholic-run health center in Byambwe, killing at least 17 people, including women seeking maternity care, before setting fire to four patient wards. MONUSCO also reported abductions and the looting of medical supplies during the attacks.

The mission urged Congolese authorities to launch independent investigations and bring those responsible to justice.

The ADF, originally a Ugandan rebel group and now recognized by Islamic State as an affiliate, has intensified attacks despite joint military operations by Congo and Uganda. North Kivu also faces instability from Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, as international mediators, including the U.S. and Qatar, push for a negotiated settlement.