DRC: Rebel attacks in Beni territory November 3-4; at least eight killed /update 3

Event

Suspected members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group carried out simultaneous attacks in the localities of Mangboko and Oicha, located in Beni territory (North Kivu province), overnight November 3-4. In Mangboko, rebels killed at least seven people; in Oicha, one person was killed and 15 others were reportedly abducted.

The renewed violence is likely to prompt protests to denounce the army's inability to secure the area.

Similar rebel attacks are possible in Beni over the coming days and weeks.

Context 

Several other suspected ADF attacks have taken place recently in Beni territory, including in the town of Beni and the nearby town of Oicha. Numerous related protests have been held in both towns to denounce the increasing insecurity.

The ADF is a Ugandan Islamist militant group that has been active in North Kivu province since the late 1990s. Notably, the group is suspected of having carried out an attack on UN peacekeepers in Beni territory in December 2017, killing at least 15 peacekeepers and wounding some 53 others. In general, the Congolese government's limited presence in the eastern provinces, including North Kivu, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias) have led to continued insecurity in the area.

Advice

Individuals in North Kivu province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, avoid the above areas, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.