The territory of Lubero in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, has once again plunged into mourning after two deadly Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) attacks on Tuesday, Jan. 13.

The assaults, conducted in the villages of Mausa and Byambwe, left at least nine civilians dead, several abducted, and homes burned.

“Our region has been a major target of these rebels,” one resident said. “And we wonder how it will end since the national army cannot be in every corner, as we can imagine how they work. We are afraid that many people will perish the way things are going.”

The first assault occurred around 5:30 a.m. in the village of Mausa. At least five people were killed, several others kidnapped, and houses set ablaze. The same morning, another attack struck the vicinity of Byambwe on the Butembo-Mangurujipa road, where four civilians were murdered. Local sources report that the attackers emerged from the surrounding bush, catching residents by surprise as they worked in their fields or prepared for the day.

“We heard rumors the night before about suspicious movements, but we didn’t imagine it would end like this,” a community member from Byambwe explained.

The situation in Byambwe deteriorated rapidly. Rumors circulating on social media on Monday evening warned of unusual activity in the Kighumo neighborhood, prompting many villagers to flee toward safer areas. On Tuesday morning, four people were found decapitated in a field near Byambwe, intensifying the fear gripping the population. The death toll remains provisional as searches continue, and many residents are still missing.

“This has created deep panic,” a local church leader said. “People are leaving their homes again, even though they have nowhere else to go. We pray that God hears our prayers and also the prayers of other Christians around the world who always pray for peace in Congo.”

These attacks come just months after the massacre of nearly 30 civilians in Byambwe during a night attack in November 2025. Many were sick at the local health center. The repeated targeting of rural communities, churchgoers, farmers, and families has led local leaders and other observers to warn that Christians are increasingly facing violence. As of now, no statement has been issued by the army authority or government leaders.

*Names have been withheld for security reasons

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