DRC: Militants kill multiple civilians in North Kivu province June 16

Event

Suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants killed at least three civilians in an attack in Loselose, located in Beni territory (North Kivu province) on Tuesday, June 16. The militants reportedly attacked farmers near the village on Tuesday morning (local time) before progressing towards the center of Loselose, when they were repulsed by Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) soldiers. Reports state that several homes were also burned down.

Similar ADF attacks are to be expected in North Kivu province over the near term.

Context

The government's limited presence in the DRC's eastern provinces, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias, has led to continued insecurity in the area.

The ADF is a Ugandan Islamist militant group that has been active in North Kivu province since the late 1990s. There has been local and international speculation regarding potential links between ADF rebels and Islamic State (IS) militants. 

Advice

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

A number of Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the east and northeast of the country due to poor security conditions, including the presence of armed groups and a high risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice should be sought prior to travel.