**The alarming situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo: the escalation of violence by the ADF rebels**
The Democratic Republic of Congo is once again the scene of senseless acts of violence perpetrated by the rebels of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) group. Between May 4 and 7, at least 80 people lost their lives in large-scale attacks carried out by these insurgents in the villages of the Baswagha-Madiwe group, located in the territory of Beni, North Kivu province.
The recent events, particularly those that occurred on the night of Friday, May 7 in the villages of Masala, Mapasana and Mahini, are attributed to the ADF, according to the spokesman for the Congolese army, Lieutenant Colonel Mak Hazukay. This series of attacks also caused the death of 30 other civilians in the localities of Masau, Mununze, Kabweke and Manlese over the last two weeks. In addition, the rebels stole 25 motorcycles and set fire to several homes during their deadly raids.
Faced with this blind violence, local populations fled their homes to seek refuge in Kyatsaba, in certain neighborhoods of the city of Beni, as well as in Mabalako where the general referral hospital is overwhelmed with patients, among whom are many wounded.
Since May 3, civil society in the Beni territory reports that 123 civilians have been killed in various attacks attributed to the ADF rebels in the Bapakombe-Pendekali region, particularly in Mangina, Mantumbi, Kudukudu, Kalmango and Beu-Manyama.
The ADF, now established in eastern Congo, has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and is increasing its attacks, thus contributing to the destabilization of a region already weakened by the presence of numerous armed groups.
This escalation of violence perpetrated by the ADF rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a source of concern and calls on the international community to act quickly to put an end to these atrocities and guarantee the safety of civilian populations.
Let us remain vigilant in the face of this tragic situation and mobilize to support efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.