The bloody attack on the village of Maikengo, in Lubero territory, by ADF rebels has sparked a wave of indignation and sadness. The initial toll of 25 civilians killed increased to reach 42 victims, testifying to the violence and cruelty shown by the attackers.
According to Colonel Alain Kiwewa, administrator of the Lubero territory, and local civil society, search operations made it possible to find 17 other bodies, bringing the total number of victims to 42. These civilians were brutally murdered during the attack attributed to the ADF, which also led to the burning of several homes in the village of Maikengo.
Faced with this tragedy, the local population is in anguish and fear, and many residents have decided to flee to areas deemed safer. Colonel Alain Kiwewa called for calm and assured that FARDC soldiers had been mobilized to track down the attackers and protect civilians.
However, this attack is unfortunately not an isolated case. ADF rebels have spread terror in the Beni region, causing the deaths of dozens of people in just two weeks. Civil society deplored the loss of at least 79 lives, while the government confirmed a death toll of 41 victims and promised actions to neutralize these armed groups.
This wave of violence and terrorism highlights the urgency of coordinated and effective action to protect civilian populations and put an end to the insecurity reigning in the region. It is crucial that local and national authorities join forces to guarantee the safety of citizens and put an end to the abuses of armed groups who terrorize innocent civilians.
In these dark times, it is essential to support and accompany the communities affected by these tragedies, while demanding concrete measures to put an end to the violence and the impunity of armed groups. Only a collective effort and citizen mobilization can restore peace and stability in this region ravaged by conflict and violence.