Title: Congolese civil society denounces a new massacre by the democratic and allied forces (ADF) in Ituri
Introduction :
In the Mambasa region, in Ituri (Democratic Republic of Congo), the New Congolese Civil Society (NSCC) confirmed on Friday July 14, 2023 the killing of at least 12 civilians by terrorists from the Democratic and Allied Forces (ADF). This new deadly attack adds to the list of atrocities committed by these armed groups in the region. Congolese civil society continues to raise its voice to denounce these acts of violence and demand justice.
The story of events:
According to testimonies collected by the NSCC, the civilians were killed in the regions of Apesiko, Apatineko and Elake, located in the Babila-Bakwanza chiefdom. Survivors report that ADF terrorists acted brutally, coldly slitting the throats of peaceful citizens in their path. The consequences of this attack are tragic, with more than 20 bodies still lying on the ground, silent witnesses to the brutality of this violence.
The civil society alert:
This is not the first time that Congolese civil society has sounded the alarm about the murderous activities of the ADF. Already at the beginning of the week, civil society had warned of a clash between a group of Mai-Mai militiamen called “Wazalendo” and ADF terrorists near the town of Mayuwano. This recent killing unfortunately confirms the fears expressed by civil society about the continued presence of armed groups in the region and the threat they pose to the civilian population.
A worrying situation:
This escalation of violence in the Mambasa region of Ituri is extremely worrying. Not only do civilians continue to pay the heavy price of these deadly clashes, but it also raises questions about the authorities’ ability to protect the population and deal with these armed groups. Congolese civil society calls for urgent action by the government and the international community to end this spiral of violence and terror.
Conclusion :
The new massacre perpetrated by the Democratic and Allied Forces (ADF) in the Mambasa region of Ituri is a painful reminder of the challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo. Congolese civil society continues to mobilize to denounce these barbaric acts and demand justice for the victims. It is essential that concrete measures be taken to end the violence and protect the civilian population. The fight against armed groups must be a top priority to ensure security and peace in the region