Twenty-six people have reportedly been killed and several others abducted in a new attack carried out by the Islamist rebels of Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) on Nov. 10, during the night, in Mambasa territory, Ituri province, northeastern DR Congo, a country where nearly 93% of the population is Christian. 

According to a local association coordinator, Malikidogo, more than six villages were affected, including Kangwayi, Misele, Mingazi, and Mambaka.  

“The situation is very serious; we identified 26 people killed, several others abducted, and many families are still searching for their missing loved ones,” Malikidogo said. “Aside from the death of many people, five houses were burnt alongside some motorcycles. We are calling on the authorities to take urgent action to protect the population.” 

Left With Nothing

Survivors who succeeded in escaping reported that many families had to run for their lives, leaving their homes and belongings behind.

“We were very afraid when we realized that the enemies were already in the village when we heard people crying and others running in every direction,” one survivor said. “We just fled without having time to collect our belongings, just to save our lives. We do not know what will happen next, and we are afraid that they might come and reach Mambasa city where we are today.”

The attack comes at a difficult time for local communities, which are already facing the threat of Ebola. Residents are now dealing with both the fear of the disease and the danger of further attacks. There are concerns that the violence could also make it harder to control the Ebola outbreak. People fleeing their villages may spread the disease to other communities, while insecurity could prevent health workers from reaching those who need medical help. 

A local leader also expressed concern about the situation and called for stronger protection of civilians. 

“We have suffered for many years because of the atrocities committed by ADF Islamist terrorists,” he said. “We are already struggling with Ebola, and now we are facing these attacks again. We cannot continue living like this. We are calling on the government and security forces to protect our communities before more innocent lives are lost.” 

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