 "Congo Church Massacre: At least 38 killed by Islamic State-backed rebels")
In yet another brutal assault in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, at least 38 people were killed on Sunday when Islamic State-linked rebels attacked a Catholic church complex in Komanda, torching homes and shops and leaving behind scenes of devastation.
The pre-dawn raid, carried out by members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), unfolded around 1 a.m. and left multiple bodies both inside and outside the church. Local civil society leader Dieudonné Duranthabo reported that three of the victims were found burnt, and warned that the death toll could rise as search efforts continue.
The ADF, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, has repeatedly targeted civilians across the border regions of Uganda and Congo. Just weeks ago, the group was responsible for a massacre in Ituri province, prompting the UN to describe the violence as a “bloodbath.”
Military officials confirmed the Komanda incident. “At least 10 people were killed in a machete attack on a church near the town,” said Lt. Jules Ngongo, army spokesperson for Ituri province. Shops nearby were also set on fire, he added.
The ADF, originally formed in Uganda in the 1990s, moved into Congo in 2002 after facing military pressure at home. Since then, it has launched a prolonged campaign of violence, killing thousands of civilians. The group’s leadership envisions an Islamic state in the region.
Duranthabo criticised the lack of effective security in Komanda despite the presence of government forces. He said some residents were now fleeing toward Bunia, fearing further violence. “We need immediate military support — the enemy is still close,” he said.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsAs Congo’s army continues its battle against the ADF, it is also contending with fresh clashes involving the M23 rebel group, which Kinshasa accuses of receiving support from Rwanda.
With inputs from agencies
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