At least 10 people were killed and an unknown number abducted in an attack by extremist rebels linked to the Islamic State (IS) group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to military officials.
Rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an IS-affiliated group, launched the assault on Sunday night in the Batangi-Mbau area of North Kivu province, setting several homes ablaze, said military spokesman Mak Hazukay.
“We urge the population to remain vigilant and assure them that we will drive the enemy out of our territory,” Hazukay stated.
Eastern DRC has endured decades of armed conflict, with over 120 groups vying for power, land, and valuable mineral resources. While some armed groups claim to defend local communities, many have been accused of massacres, leaving nearly 7 million people displaced.
In recent years, ADF attacks have escalated, extending their reach to Goma, the regional capital, and neighboring Ituri province. Rights organizations and the United Nations accuse the group of killing hundreds, abducting scores, and targeting children in their campaigns.
Earlier this month, the ADF killed at least 13 people in another North Kivu village, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by the group.
