DRC: Several Virunga National Park rangers killed in Rutshuru Territory, North Kivu Province, Jan. 10

Event

Unidentified assailants attacked and killed at least six Virunga National Park rangers in Rutshuru Territory, North Kivu Province, Jan. 10. Two of the assailants were also reportedly killed. The incident reportedly occurred near Nyamitwitwi. Further information is currently unavailable.

Context

Several armed groups operate throughout North Kivu, especially in areas bordering Rwanda and Uganda. Clashes between insurgents and Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) troops occur regularly in the Beni, Masisi, Nyiragongo, Rutshuru, and Walikale territories. Virunga National Park rangers have also been impacted in attacks in the past. In April 2020, assailants killed at least 12 rangers in the park.