The United Nations has strongly condemned a series of deadly attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as authorities and peacekeepers grapple with escalating violence.
Between August 9 and 16, attacks in North Kivu province claimed at least 52 lives, including eight women and two children.
MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, warned that the death toll could rise as the situation remains volatile.
“These attacks targeting civilians, which come on top of the atrocities committed during the night of July 26-27 in Komanda, are intolerable and constitute serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law,” said Bintou Keita, head of MONUSCO.
The assaults involved kidnappings, widespread looting, and the burning of homes, vehicles, and motorcycles.
In a statement, the UN mission called on all foreign armed groups, including the ADF, to lay down their arms unconditionally and return to their countries of origin.
It also urged Congolese authorities to investigate the massacres and bring those responsible to justice.
In response, MONUSCO has bolstered its military presence and increased support to local authorities.
During attacks in Mayi-Moya on August 13 and 14, the mission provided protection to 206 civilians, including 93 children and 70 women, who had sought refuge at its bases.
“MONUSCO remains fully committed alongside the Congolese authorities and local communities to prevent further violence, protect civilians, reduce tensions and contribute to the stabilization of conflict-affected areas,” the mission added.
The latest attacks underscore the persistent insecurity in eastern DRC, a region long affected by armed groups and recurring violence.
Humanitarian agencies warn that urgent interventions are needed to prevent further civilian casualties and restore stability to the area.
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