Rebels linked to the Islamic State struck gold mining sites in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, killing several people and forcing civilians to flee.
The Allied Democratic Forces, a Ugandan rebel group allied with IS, attacked facilities near Muchacha in Ituri province Wednesday night, authorities said.
Local police chief Matadi Muyapandi said the area is a major gold-mining hub, including operations run by Chinese companies.
Soldiers sent to confront the fighters were ambushed, leaving seven troops wounded, demonstrating the rebels’ unpredictable and violent tactics.
John Vuleveryo, head of a local NGO, confirmed two civilian deaths and reported several kidnappings. Chinese workers at the mine reportedly fled the area.
Eastern DRC has suffered decades of conflict involving militias, armed groups, and the national army, with Ituri and North Kivu hit hardest.
The ADF has a long history of massacres, looting, and terrorising local communities, raising concerns across the region.
Since 2021, Ugandan forces have supported Congolese troops in fighting the ADF, but attacks continue. The Congolese army also battles the M23 armed group, while ADF fighters operate in small, forest-hidden units.
The assault highlights ongoing insecurity in eastern DRC, putting civilians and foreign investments at risk. Authorities urged vigilance as investigations continue, warning the ADF remains capable of further attacks.
