In the strife-torn region of eastern Congo’s North Kivu province, a harrowing series of attacks occurred on Tuesday, claiming the lives of at least 12 villagers.
The Assailants were identified as the Allied Democratic Forces, ADF, militants suspected to be associated with the extremist Islamic State group.
Targeting three villages in the Beni territory, the assailants left a trail of devastation, as reported by Kinos Katuho, the president of the local Mamove civil society organisation.
The broader context reveals a longstanding struggle in eastern Congo, marked by decades of armed violence involving over 120 groups vying for power, land, and precious mineral resources.
The resurgence of conflict in late 2021, spearheaded by the reactivated rebel group M23, exacerbated the turmoil.
This group, previously dormant, allegedly received support from neighbouring Rwanda, a claim vehemently denied by the country.
The mineral-rich region remains a volatile hotspot plagued by armed groups accused of perpetrating mass killings.
“Two people were killed in the village of Mangazi-Kasongo, five in Matadi-Beu and five others in Mamove,” said Katuho.
Among those killed by the attackers — who also looted the properties — was the village chief in Matadi-Beu, according to Mamove chief Charles Endukadi.
Meanwhile, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi on Tuesday repeated his claims that the M23 rebels are supported by Rwanda, and said he would not engage in talks with Rwanda’s leader, Paul Kagame, over the issue.
The United Nations and human rights groups have also said the militants receive backing from Rwanda.
“No dialogue will take place with our aggressor as long as it occupies a portion of our territory,” Tshisekedi said, referring to Rwanda. He spoke during a meeting with diplomats in the Congolese capital of Kinshasa.
“We will not accept any compromise,” he said.
