In the troubled region of Beni and Mambasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo, dramatic events follow one another, sowing terror and chaos among local populations. Ugandan ADF rebels continue their advance into the dense forest that connects the territories of Beni and Mambasa, leaving behind a wake of destruction and mourning.
Recently, the village of Masongo, located in the Bakaeku group, Babila Babombi chiefdom, was the scene of a deadly attack. The terrorists struck in the dead of night, massacring six innocent civilians and burning a house to the ground. This tragedy is part of a series of attacks carried out by the ADF in the region, leaving an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the population.
Faced with this escalation of violence, local civil society is calling on the authorities to strengthen security measures and eradicate these armed groups which threaten the peace and stability of the region. Local communities are left in anguish and uncertainty, fearing for their lives and those of their loved ones.
The security situation in the territories of Beni and Mambasa is most worrying, with repeated attacks against civilians causing significant human losses. Despite the authorities’ commitments to tracking down the attackers in the forest, the threat persists and the populations remain vulnerable.
It is imperative that concrete actions are taken to end this cycle of violence and protect populations from these atrocities. Cooperation between local authorities, security forces and civil society is essential to counter the threat of armed groups and restore peace in the region.
In these dark times, the solidarity and determination of all are required to face this humanitarian and security crisis. It is time to end the terror and ensure a safe and peaceful future for the people of Beni and Mambasa.