The deadly attack perpetrated by ADF rebels in Bandibongo Siya in Irumu territory in Ituri has once again plunged the region into horror. Thirteen people lost their lives, eight others were injured and several houses were burned down during this double attack. This tragedy comes after a period of relative calm, leaving residents in shock and fear.
Civil society actors are demanding firmer action from the military authorities to counter these recurring abuses by the ADF rebels. Despite the operations carried out by the armed forces in the region, attacks persist, spreading terror among the population.
Tension remains high in surrounding villages as residents fear further rebel incursions. The NGO Convention for the Respect of Human Rights has drawn up a devastating assessment of this attack, highlighting the cruelty of the attackers and the vulnerability of the local populations.
It is urgent that the authorities strengthen security in the region and identify the rebels’ accomplices to bring them to justice. The population deserves to live in peace, without fearing for their lives and property at any time. Concerted action is needed to eradicate this threat and guarantee the safety of residents of the Irumu region in Ituri.