Mamove Village in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a once-busy trading center, was reduced to ashes on Feb. 1 as Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) burned dozens of homes and businesses and displaced many residents.

The terrorist group struck nearby villages two days later.

Eight people were reportedly killed in both attacks, with the number expected to rise as residents seek missing loved ones.

“More than 50 of our houses were burned, including the small shops that kept our local economy alive,” said Kend*, a local resident. “They even destroyed many motorcycles, which are the only source of income for most of our young men. “

“I started my shop a long time ago, step by step, year after year,” said David*. “In one night, the ADF erased all my life … no longer hope, not only for me but for all people who lost their belongings.”

The attack has left Mamove paralyzed. With businesses and transportation means destroyed, hunger and fear grip the region. The trauma among the people is heavy, especially for children who witnessed killings and fires that they long remember.

Local leaders have strongly condemned the violence.

Paul Mwenda, a Mamove community leader, expressed anger and exhaustion: “We are tired of counting bodies and ashes, the state has failed us, and so have those who claim moral authority. Our people are abandoned.”

Frustrated residents complain about the silence and inaction of government leaders, noting the Church’s strong influence. Another local said, “The national leaders know our suffering, yet they remain silent while their citizens are slaughtered and displaced. Silence in the face of blood is not neutrality. It is betrayal.”

Government officials have yet to issue any statement regarding these attacks. In recent days, ADF militants have intensified their activities across several areas of North Kivu and Ituri provinces. Communities face hardship, including loss of lives and properties, mass displacement, poverty, and rising hunger. The repeated attacks since Feb. 1 show how the ongoing war continues to expand, leaving civilians exposed to constant violence and loss.

The ADF, also known as the Islamic State Central Africa Province, is among the most dangerous militant movements. ICC lists the DRC in its annual Global Persecution Index.

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* Names changed for security reasons.