A bloody night once again struck the town of Beni, in the commune of Mulekera, where at least 12 civilians were brutally killed during an attack carried out by armed attackers. The Saïo and Matembo neighborhoods were the main targets of this indiscriminate violence claimed by the Islamic State group.
The poignant testimonies of residents and local authorities reveal the horror of the scene. Innocent villagers from the localities of Mavivi and Mbau were targeted while they were going about their rural activities. Among the victims, a woman also lost her life, leaving behind grief and dismay in the community.
This deadly attack unfortunately adds to a series of violent incidents which have shaken the region in recent weeks. ADF rebels continue to sow terror in Beni, with dramatic consequences for residents who live in constant fear.
It is urgent that concrete measures be taken to protect the civilian population and put an end to this spiral of violence which only ravages innocent lives. Local authorities and security forces must redouble their efforts to ensure the safety of residents and neutralize armed groups that threaten the peace and stability of the region.
It is therefore necessary for the international community to support the efforts of the Congolese authorities to restore security and tranquility in Beni and North Kivu. Now is the time for action to put an end to this unacceptable violence and provide a peaceful future for the region’s residents.