“The initial death toll of 43 may rise further; some victims were burned inside their homes, and others are still in the bush,” a civil society representative who wished to remain anonymous said. “The attackers surprised the population in their sleep; the victims were killed by gunfire, and several were beheaded with machetes. The images are unbearable.”

During the opening of the parliamentary session that same day, the president of the National Assembly, Aimé Boji, condemned the killings and abductions of civilians in Mambasa Territory. He called on members of parliament to observe a minute of silence to honor the victims and urged the Congolese government to restore security and protect civilians in the affected area.

“You have certainly heard, as I have, of the tragedy that has once again plunged the republic into mourning following the massacres in the villages of Bafwakoa, in Mambasa,” he said. “Several dozen of our compatriots, including the village chief, were brutally killed by ADF terrorists. Homes were burned, and many people were abducted, including women and children. On behalf of the National Assembly, we strongly condemn these shocking acts and urge the government to do everything possible to stop these killings and secure our compatriots in this part of the national territory.”

Later that day, Patrick Muyaya, spokesperson for the Congolese government, delivered a grave assessment during a press briefing on the security situation in the East. Referring to updates from the army in Ituri, Muyaya stressed the need for a firm response to the ongoing violence. He also highlighted the importance of reinforcing security measures and intensifying military operations to stop ADF activities.

“The FARDC wishes to reassure the population that all security arrangements are being strengthened to protect civilians, restore order, and neutralize the ADF and their allies,” Muyaya said. “Targeted military operations are being intensified to track and dismantle terrorist networks. The population is urged to remain vigilant, to cooperate with defense and security forces, and to report any suspicious activity that may help eliminate this threat. We strongly condemn these acts and are working closely with the military governors of Ituri and North Kivu to contain this threat. We also reaffirm our solidarity with all affected communities.”