An alarming update reveals the tragic consequences of affiliate violence in the region, raising urgent calls for action.
**Deadly Night Vigil Attack in DR Congo Linked to Islamic State Affiliation**
**Deadly Night Vigil Attack in DR Congo Linked to Islamic State Affiliation**
Dozens of brave churchgoers fall victim to rising extremism in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a harrowing assault, dozens of worshippers were killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during a night vigil at a local church in Komanda on the night of the attack. Local officials report that the assault, perpetrated by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)—a group now affiliated with the Islamic State—resulted in at least 20 fatalities among those gathered for prayers.
Witnesses confirmed that nearby shops and properties were not only burglarized but also set ablaze amidst the chaos. The ADF, which originated in Uganda during the 1990s, has positioned itself in DRC and carries out relentless assaults on civilians from all backgrounds. The ADF is now integrated into the Islamic State's Central African Province, which extends to groups operating in Mozambique as well. Current research indicates that a staggering 90% of the Islamic State's operations occur via its factions in Africa.
Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society leader in Komanda, expressed fears that the death toll may rise as search efforts continue. “More than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside [the church], and the search is ongoing,” he shared, accentuating the dire situation. Local priest Father Aime Lokana Dhego reported at least 31 members from the Eucharistic Crusade movement dead and six injured. Unfortunately, some youngsters were also abducted during the raid, with no updates on their whereabouts.
While the UN-backed Radio Okapi provides varying figures, with its report citing 43 casualties, an army spokesperson could only confirm 10 fatalities. The DRC had previously enlisted Ugandan military support to combat the ADF, yet attacks persist unabated.
Komanda, situated in the resource-rich Ituri province, has been a battleground for various militant factions, highlighting the complexities of security in the region. As concerns grow, the international community watches closely, eager to discern the next steps in addressing the deepening crisis.
Witnesses confirmed that nearby shops and properties were not only burglarized but also set ablaze amidst the chaos. The ADF, which originated in Uganda during the 1990s, has positioned itself in DRC and carries out relentless assaults on civilians from all backgrounds. The ADF is now integrated into the Islamic State's Central African Province, which extends to groups operating in Mozambique as well. Current research indicates that a staggering 90% of the Islamic State's operations occur via its factions in Africa.
Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society leader in Komanda, expressed fears that the death toll may rise as search efforts continue. “More than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside [the church], and the search is ongoing,” he shared, accentuating the dire situation. Local priest Father Aime Lokana Dhego reported at least 31 members from the Eucharistic Crusade movement dead and six injured. Unfortunately, some youngsters were also abducted during the raid, with no updates on their whereabouts.
While the UN-backed Radio Okapi provides varying figures, with its report citing 43 casualties, an army spokesperson could only confirm 10 fatalities. The DRC had previously enlisted Ugandan military support to combat the ADF, yet attacks persist unabated.
Komanda, situated in the resource-rich Ituri province, has been a battleground for various militant factions, highlighting the complexities of security in the region. As concerns grow, the international community watches closely, eager to discern the next steps in addressing the deepening crisis.
