The news in the Democratic Republic of Congo is marked by a new incursion by the rebels of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) into the Babila Bakwanza chieftaincy, in the province of Ituri. According to information provided by master John Vuleverio, coordinator of the new Congolese civil society of Mambasa, this attack took place on Thursday, July 13, 2023.
The first reports show 12 civilians killed, including 9 north of Elake village and 3 in Mangina-Pori, all located in the Babila Bapwele group. However, it is feared that the number of victims could be even higher, because according to civil society, more than 20 bodies are still found on the ground in Mangina-Pori.
This new attack raises concerns about the safety of civilians in the region. The ADF rebels continue to sow terror and violence, endangering the lives of the local population. Faced with this situation, civil society calls on the military authorities to intensify offensive operations against the rebels and to take concrete measures to ensure the protection of civilians.
This violence perpetrated by the ADF adds to a long list of tragedies affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country faces many security, political and socio-economic challenges. Attacks by armed groups are common in several provinces, causing the death of many civilians and displacing entire populations.
It is urgent that measures be taken to put an end to this violence and to preserve the safety of the inhabitants of the DRC. Military operations must be strengthened, but it is also essential to address the root causes of these conflicts, in particular by investing in the socio-economic development of the affected regions and by promoting dialogue and reconciliation between different communities.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is complex, but it is crucial not to forget the fate of the civilians who suffer the consequences of this violence. As an international community, it is our duty to support the Congolese people in their quest for peace, justice and stability