The United Nations has issued a firm condemnation following a series of brutal assaults carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) armed group in North Kivu province of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Between 9 and 16 August, armed men struck several villages across Beni and Lubero territories, leaving at least 52 civilians dead. Among the victims were eight women and two children, though peacekeepers warned the toll could climb higher as searches continued.
Bintou Keita, Head of the UN Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), described the atrocities as intolerable.
“These attacks targeting civilians, which add to the atrocities committed during the night of 26 to 27 July in Komanda (Ituri territory, Ituri), are intolerable and constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights.”
Bintou Keita
Witness reports and UN assessments confirmed that the ADF rampage was marked not only by killings but also by mass abductions, looting, and the destruction of property. Homes, motorcycles, and vehicles were burned, while communities already grappling with humanitarian distress were left in deeper despair.
In a strongly worded statement, MONUSCO reiterated calls for foreign armed groups like the ADF to lay down their weapons and return to their countries of origin. Ms. Keita expressed deep sorrow over the lives lost. “I extend my sincere condolences, and those of the United Nations, to the bereaved families and communities, and reaffirm my solidarity with the affected populations,” she added.
The Mission also stressed that Congolese authorities must act swiftly to investigate the massacres, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought before justice. UN officials underlined that accountability was central to halting further cycles of violence.
On 13 and 14 August, MONUSCO troops stepped in to protect fleeing civilians after fresh violence erupted in Mayi-Moya, North Kivu. At least 206 people, including 70 women and 93 children, were sheltered at the Mission’s military base. Peacekeepers also conducted joint night patrols with the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) to stabilize the area.
Stronger Military Presence To Protect Communities
The wave of violence prompted MONUSCO to bolster its security footprint across affected territories. The Mission announced it had intensified patrols in coordination with the FARDC and local leaders, with day and night operations deployed to safeguard communities in Oicha and along the densely populated Mavivi–Eringeti axis.
“MONUSCO remains fully committed to supporting Congolese authorities and local communities in preventing further violence, protecting civilians, reducing tensions, and contributing to the stabilisation of areas affected by armed conflict.”
MONUSCO
In Ituri province, the Intervention Brigade reinforced its deployment with additional troops in Komanda and Ofaye. UN field offices in Bunia and Beni were also tasked to work closely with local leaders to strengthen community protection and mitigate security risks.
Despite years of international presence, armed groups like the ADF continue to spread instability across eastern Congo, displacing families and worsening humanitarian crises. Analysts say lasting peace will depend not only on military pressure but also on dismantling the networks that allow foreign armed groups to thrive in the region.
As MONUSCO deepens its cooperation with Congolese authorities, hopes remain that increased security measures and justice for victims can help restore confidence among communities terrorized by relentless waves of violence.
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