Suspected Allied Democratic Forces rebels killed at least 50 people in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo this month.
The attacks occurred between March 9 and 15 in Muchacha and Babesua localities of Ituri province’s Mambasa territory, local sources reported.
Thirty-five civilians died at the Muchacha gold mine, while 15 were killed in Babesua, according to Radio Okapi citing civil society figures.
The ADF, linked to the Islamic State, has carried out repeated attacks in eastern Congo over several years, terrorizing local communities.
Since 2021, joint operations by Ugandan and Congolese forces have targeted the rebels, seeking to curb their deadly campaigns and presence.
Witnesses reported that the insurgents also looted homes, destroyed property, and set several houses ablaze during the recent attacks.
The violence forced dozens of residents to flee along National Road 4, abandoning families and belongings to escape the advancing militants.
Civil society organisations called on the Congolese government to urgently address security gaps and restore state authority in Ituri province.
Earlier this week, Kinshasa condemned the attacks on mining sites, emphasising the government’s commitment to protecting civilians and property.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said overcrowding is worsening at displacement sites, heightening concern for affected civilians.
Humanitarian agencies warned that continued violence risks further destabilising eastern Congo, threatening livelihoods and undermining fragile community resilience in the region.
The ADF’s persistent raids reflect a broader pattern of insurgent violence in central Africa, challenging regional security and cross-border cooperation.
Residents remain fearful, with local leaders urging stronger protection measures to prevent new attacks and ensure the safety of vulnerable populations.
