09 May 2020 | 10:33 PM UTC
DRC: Armed forces kill 23 militants in security operations in Djugu (Ituri province) May 7
Armed forces kill 23 suspected militants in security operations in Djugu territory (Ituri province) May 7; further security operations likely over the near term
Event
The Congolese army announced that 23 suspected militants from the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) were killed in security operations in Djugu territory (Ituri province) on Thursday, May 7. The security operations centered on the town of Bese where four villages were reportedly cleared of militant control. Reports indicate that 12 militants were captured and munitions were recovered during the operations.
On Monday, May 4, the new leader of CODECO, Ngabu Ngawi Olivier, stated that the group would lay down their arms and called on the army to agree to a ceasefire. It remains unclear as of Saturday, May 9, whether the army intends to cooperate with CODECO in the implementation of a ceasefire.
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.
Advice
Individuals in Ituri province are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity, monitor developments to the situation, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
