DRC: Assailants attack convoy north of Goma, North Kivu, Feb. 22; Italian ambassador and two others killed /update 1

Event

Italian and local officials have confirmed that the Italian ambassador to the DRC, Luca Attanasio, and two other people, including an Italian security official, were killed earlier Feb. 22 after an attack by unidentified assailants against a United Nations (UN) convoy traveling along the RN2 in the Nyiragongo area, north of Goma. The motive for the attack, which occurred at approximately 1015, is unclear; however, several media sources have suggested it was an attempted kidnapping.

Rangers of the Virunga National Park and Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) personnel deployed to the incident site following the assault. Heightened security measures are likely along the RN2 north of Goma through Feb. 22. Authorities may restrict movement along the route. Clashes between the assailants and security forces are possible.

Context

Several armed groups operate throughout North Kivu, especially in areas bordering Rwanda and Uganda. Clashes between insurgents, FARDC troops, and Virunga rangers occur regularly in the Beni, Masisi, Nyiragongo, Rutshuru, and Walikale territories.

Advice

Avoid travel along the RN2 north of Goma in the coming hours. Heed the directives of the authorities. Contact local officials before departing Goma by ground. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Exercise a high level of personal security awareness and caution in the impact region.