Dozens of individuals were brutally attacked with machetes during a funeral event in Congo by rebels associated with the Allied Democratic Forces, a militia linked to the Islamic State. The incident, described as one of the deadliest assaults by the group, resulted in a preliminary death toll of 50, according to local official Macaire Sivikunula. The victims were taken by surprise during a mourning ceremony in the village of Ntoyo around 9 pm, with most fatalities caused by machete strikes. The search for more victims is ongoing, with military administrator Colonel Alain Kiwewa indicating that the toll could rise beyond the current count of approximately 60 as additional bodies are discovered.
The ADF, originally from Uganda and declaring allegiance to ISIS in 2019, has consistently targeted civilians in North Kivu using machetes and firearms. In recent months, the group has been responsible for multiple massacres, including over 50 killings in various attacks last month and the slaughter of 43 people, including children, during a Catholic youth retreat in Komanda. Human rights activist Christophe Munyanderu highlighted that the rebels specifically targeted Christians at the Catholic church, resulting in fatal machete and gunshot wounds.
Reports from DRC’s Radio Okapi indicated that the ADF was responsible for the deaths of 43 individuals, with more than 20 victims fatally attacked with bladed weapons during a church prayer vigil. Additional casualties were discovered in burned buildings nearby, as confirmed by the radio. DRC army spokesperson Jules Ngongo reported an armed incursion with machetes at a nearby church.
Following the tragic events, Pope Leo expressed profound sorrow, while the UN condemned the ADF for violating international laws. Despite joint military efforts between Congo and Uganda, the rebel group continues to carry out violent acts, leading to a humanitarian crisis with numerous displacements, shattered communities, and stalled peace negotiations. The influence of the Islamic State in Africa has been expanding, fueled by factors such as poverty, unrest, and inadequate governance.