Militia fighters attacked a Chinese-linked mining site in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, killing six Chinese nationals and at least two Congolese soldiers, local officials reported on Thursday.
The attack occurred on Wednesday in Djugu territory, located in the gold-rich Ituri province, and was carried out by the CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) militia, according to Djugu administrator Ruphin Mapela. This group primarily consists of fighters from the Lendu ethnic group, who claim to defend their community.
Dhekana Ernest, the Red Cross representative for Djugu, detailed that the CODECO fighters encountered the Chinese nationals while they were digging for gold.
The militia entered their camp and killed six Chinese nationals and two Congolese soldiers with gunfire. The victims’ bodies were transported to the city of Bunia.
An army spokesperson confirmed the death toll and added that a Congolese national and six militia fighters were also killed in the confrontation.
In Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry condemned the attack on the Chinese-funded private enterprise and reported the deaths and disappearances of several Chinese citizens. Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that China is in close communication with DRC authorities to search for the missing individuals.
“We urge the DRC to pursue and punish the perpetrators in accordance with the law as soon as possible,” Mao said, calling for enhanced security and protection for Chinese citizens and enterprises in the region. “Those already in high-risk areas should be evacuated as soon as possible.”
The name of the mining site and the company involved were not immediately available.
Many private Chinese operators partner with local license holders in eastern Congo’s mining concessions, often providing funding, machinery, and bringing in Chinese workers.
This incident marks the latest deadly militia attack in a region plagued by violence linked to long-standing competition for influence and valuable mineral resources.
CODECO is one of numerous militias fighting over land and resources in eastern Congo and has been accused by the United Nations of committing attacks against other communities that could constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
