Rebel attack in DRC's Ituri province leaves dozens killed

At least 43 civilians were killed in an overnight attack in Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) northeastern Ituri province, in an assault attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels.

The attackers stormed Komanda town in Irumu territory around midnight Saturday, targeting a group of worshippers gathered in a prayer hall near the town's general hospital. The victims reportedly included several catechumens from the Catholic church who were preparing for confirmation on Sunday.

"The attack started around midnight. They caught the people at prayer by surprise. Several displaced persons living nearby were also killed. Unlike previous times, there were no warning signs," survivor Mwila Kiloko told Anadolu Agency.

Witnesses said homes were set ablaze and personal belongings looted. A truck belonging to a merchant from Oicha was also torched.

The deadly assault struck the city centre — a location presumed to be secure due to the presence of security forces. The breach sparked renewed concern over protection for civilians.

Anger and demand for answers

On Sunday morning, the bodies of the victims remained at the site of the attack. Residents, angered by the government's silence, refused to bury the dead until provincial officials formally acknowledged the killings.

Local civil society organisations are calling for the arrival of the military governor in Komanda and the immediate implementation of security measures to prevent further massacres.

The attack has renewed scrutiny of the state of siege, which has remained in effect for more than two years in the violence-plagued region.

Komanda lies along the strategic Beni-Bunia corridor, long seen as a flashpoint for violence. Several attacks in recent months have killed dozens of civilians and deepened instability in the region.

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Source: TRT